Children and Young People News – September 2025
PUBLISHED: Everyday Active Schools Impact Report
We’re delighted to share our recently published Everyday Active Schools Impact Report. Discover how primary schools across Kent and Medway are embedding physical activity to boost pupil wellbeing, behaviour and learning. The Everyday Active Schools programme is more than just a physical activity initiative – it’s a movement that’s helping schools across Kent and Medway reimagine how they support children’s health and wellbeing.
‘’It is definitely something that every school should be a part of. The help and support that we receive is amazing! The programme is such an important part of keeping our children active.’’ Teacher, St Nicholas Church of England Primary Academy
Follow this link to read the full report
Everyday Active Schools Film
Our NEW Everyday Active Schools film features Shorne Church of England Primary School. Discover how the school has embraced movement across the school day and what it means to be an Everyday Active School. We’d like to thank all the staff and pupils who feature in our short film.
Active Lives CYP Survey
With a new academic year, comes a new Sport England Active Lives Survey. Karen Johnston, our Active Lives CYP Survey Officer will be in touch with all schools who are selected to take part in the survey.
Karen is here to support schools to complete the annual survey. In doing so, schools receive a £100 equipment voucher, plus a report which highlights levels of wellbeing, attitudes towards sport and physical activity and volunteering. The findings are used to shape future policy and investment in school sport.
Schools can get in touch with Karen directly at karen.johnston2@kent.gov.uk or phone 07974 437474.
Follow this link to find out about the Active Lives CYP Survey
parkrun primary
parkrun uk has launched parkrun primary. They’re inviting schools across the UK to join the mission, become a parkrun primary, and support young people’s health and wellbeing through the weekend. Junior parkrun takes place every Sunday at various locations across the county, for children, families and staff to enjoy regular physical activity outside of school hours and lays the foundation for lifelong positive mindset towards movement.
It’s easy to become a parkrun primary. All it takes is a few simple steps:
- Register as a parkrun primary and connect with your local junior parkrun(s).
- Host a junior parkrun school assembly.
- Share information with parents and carers.
- Attend your local junior parkrun together.
Kent School Games 2024-25 Round Up
From inclusive multi-skills cricket and table cricket to dodgeball festivals and eco ambassador training, the Kent School Games’ 2024-25 events calendar was packed with energy and unforgettable moments. We’d like to thank all the schools, organisers, volunteers and partners who made last year’s Kent School Games such a success. We can’t wait to do it all again this year.
“The Kent School Games are a celebration of inclusion, teamwork and positivity. Our focus is on tackling inequalities, supporting physical literacy and increasing youth engagement. It’s been a privilege to see so many young people grow in confidence and thrive through all the inclusive activities.” Natalie Harris, Events and Safeguarding Manager, Active Kent & Medway
Importance of Youth Voice
September often marks the return of school clubs and community activities, so what better time to consult with young people to ask them how they would like these programmes and activities be delivered.
Active Kent & Medway has consulted with over 8,000 young people across the county and asked them what would engage them more in sport and physical activity. We’ve brought together these findings to support schools and activity providers who work with young people to ensure their views and voices are heard, and to ensure greater participation in the sessions.
Mental Health Support
The start of a new year, a new school, new teacher, even a new class can sometimes feel daunting to young people. There are a wide range of services and resources which have been designed specifically for young people to use when they need some support around their mental health.
We’ve collated a list of these services and resources to support schools and local organisations working with young people. There’s also support for young adults aged 18+, along with training opportunities for anyone working with young people.
National Campaigns
Keeping your Child Safe in Sport
Everyone has a role to play in keeping children safe in sport. This year’s Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport Week runs from 6-12 October 2025. The national campaign is all about asking sports parents to play their part and talk to their children about how they can bring out their best through positive actions and support.
This is a great way for everyone involved in your sport or activity to get together to play, chat or connect, and provide an opportunity to let parents, carers, volunteers and staff know about the part they play in keeping children safe.
Follow this link to access support and resources
Ready, Set, Squash!
Developed by England Squash, this free, curriculum-aligned programme makes it easy to deliver high-energy squash sessions in any space – no experience or court required.
Schools can access online training, ready-to-use lesson plans, video how-to and access to discounts on equipment to help get you started. You can also sign up to their mailing list to receive regular updates on the programme.
Photo credit: England Squash
Follow this link to find out more
Sunguarding Schools Assemblies
This summer, 20 primary schools and 8,400+ pupils took part in Sunguarding Schools assemblies, delivered by Michelle Baker, on behalf of the Melanoma Fund in partnership with Active Kent & Medway. By reframing sunscreen as a superpower, the pupils learned how UV rays cause skin and eye damage (even in the UK); when and where to apply sunscreen properly and why sun safety is a lifelong skill.
“This campaign delivers impact, energy, and long-term value.” Louise Milne, Strategic Lead for Children and Young People, Active Kent & Medway
Photo credit: Melanoma Fund
Other News
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