WIREDGOV

School sport has received a boost thanks to additional funding that will see children get more opportunities.

Prime Minister David Cameron has committed an additional £750 million to the Primary School Sport Premium between now and the 2020 Olympics to help secure the legacy from London 2012.

Announcing the new commitment, Mr Cameron, said: "Sport is so important because it encourages children to be active, lead a healthy lifestyle, make friends and, of course, have fun.

"But quality school sport has benefits that spread right across the curriculum and beyond - it develops confidence and a sense of achievement, it teaches young people how to rise to a challenge, and nurtures the character and skills that will help them get on and succeed in life.

"It's an important part of our long-term plan to deliver the best schools and skills for young people. That is why I am committing to guarantee the primary school sports funding until 2020."

In addition to extending the premium, Mr Cameron also confirmed that Sport England will invest £18 million of National Lottery funding through the new ‘Primary Spaces – Improving outdoor PE and sports facilities’ fund.

The funding will ensure primary schools across England have better equipment and outdoor facilities - for example, turning a concrete playground into a quality outdoor area for physical and sporting activities, using innovative design to make good use of small space.

Priority will be given to schools which currently have limited outside space which can be used for PE and sport.  Applications for funding will open on 24 February with successful schools expected to receive on average £30,000.

The Prime Minister also announced an additional £11 million investment for the Sainsbury’s School Games to fund School Games Organisers for a fifth academic year. This will further help continue to inspire children and young people to take up competitive school sport.

Mike Diaper, Sport England’s Director of Community Sport, said: “Having the space and opportunities for PE and to play sport as a child is vital in developing a lifelong sporting habit. We delighted to be making these investments which will give children the space to start enjoying PE and sport and the chance to experience competitive sport in the School Games.”

To find out more about the ‘Primary Spaces – Improving outdoor PE and sports facilities’ fund and to register your school’s interest, click here.