Kids urged to get active for National School Sport Week

MP for Ashton and Failsworth, Angela Rayner

Ashton and Failsworth MP Angela Rayner is urging youngsters across her constituency to get active for National School Sport Week.

The annual event - organised by the Youth Sport Trust - runs from June 19-25 and aims to highlight the importance of physical education and school sport in enhancing the health and wellbeing of young people.

Every year, schools across the country mark the week by holding sports days or community sporting events in a bid to encourage active lifestyles.

The theme for 2021 is ‘Together Again’ and the Youth Sport Trust has partnered with the Together Coalition to celebrate togetherness and help young people recover from a year like no other.

Ms Rayner, Labour’s Deputy Leader, has written to all schools inviting them to take part.

She said: “It’s been an incredibly challenging year, and many children haven’t been able to meet up with friends and family or experience the benefits of school sport and PE.

“I’m delighted to support National School Sport Week and think it provides the perfect opportunity to come together in a safe way this summer.

“We know that children who take part in school sport and good quality physical education not only have the best chance of leading healthy active lifestyles but also gain huge benefits in improving their wellbeing, concentration and developing character and life skills.

“I hope children across my constituency enjoy getting active with their friends!”

Youth Sport Trust Chief Executive Ali Oliver added: “There is a crisis of inactivity amongst our young people, and sadly this has only worsened in recent months, with the pandemic making it difficult for children to meet the recommended guidelines for physical activity.

“School sport and PE is a fantastic way to get active, have fun with friends and resocalise this summer after such a long time of being apart.

“Sports days don’t have to be about being the best, strongest or quickest, they are a celebration of bringing us together and learning key skills like communication, empathy, teamwork and resilience.”

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