§ 29. Mr. BaldryTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what the Government's policy is on organised sport in schools. [143488]
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§ Jacqui SmithThe Government are committed to supporting organised sport in schools. Competitive games are a compulsory part of the National Curriculum for Physical Education for children aged 5–14 and are one of the options available for those aged 14–16. Out of school hours, the most popular activity is sport for both primary and secondary children. The Government launched their Sports Strategy "A Sporting Future for All" in April this year. One of its key aims is to increase participation in physical activities in schools, including organised sports. 1,000 School Sports Co-ordinators are currently being appointed. They will be based in communities of greatest need, working in "families" of primary and secondary schools linked wherever possible through LEAs to Specialist Sports Colleges. They will provide opportunities for young people to compete regularly for their school and take part in a wide range of sports outside the curriculum. So far, 143 School Sports Co-ordinators are in place. On 26 September 2000, the Prime Minister also unveiled a further major investment in sport, including £750 million New Opportunities Lottery funding to strengthen the foundation of sport across the UK by building and refurbishing PE and sports facilities in over 1,500 schools and outdoor adventure facilities, which will provide even more opportunities for children to play sport in schools.