Exploring Practical Ways to Increase Physical Activity in Primary Schools
Helping children move more during the school day is one of the most powerful tools schools have to improve health, behaviour, learning, and wellbeing. While PE lessons are a vital part of the curriculum, they alone aren’t enough to meet the Chief Medical Officer’s recommendation that all children engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day, with 30 minutes taking place during school hours. How can primary schools increase daily physical activity levels? This question is paramount for fostering a healthier, more active generation.
That’s why it’s important for school leaders and staff to explore a variety of ways to increase physical activity in primary schools throughout the day — beyond PE lessons. From morning movement routines to active breaktimes and after-school sport, the options are wide-ranging, flexible, and proven to make a measurable difference.
Why Increasing Daily Activity Matters
Increasing children’s activity levels improves physical health, boosts brain function, enhances concentration, and supports emotional regulation. Pupils who are active are better able to focus in class, manage stress, and interact positively with peers. How can primary schools increase daily physical activity levels among pupils to achieve these benefits?
Physical activity also:
- Reduces sedentary behaviour and screen time
- Helps maintain a healthy weight
- Improves mood and mental wellbeing
- Strengthens bones, muscles, and coordination
- Contributes to social development and leadership skills
For schools, embedding physical activity across the day can support attendance, engagement, and wider curriculum goals — and aligns directly with Ofsted’s focus on personal development and pupil wellbeing.
Effective Ways to Increase Physical Activity in Primary Schools
Some of the most accessible and effective strategies include:
- Active breaktimes and lunchtimes: Structured games and equipment zones led by staff or play leaders.
- Classroom movement breaks: Short, energising activities between lessons to boost focus.
- The Daily Mile or active laps: Running or walking circuits during the school day.
- Enrichment clubs: Before or after school clubs offering sport, dance, yoga, or fitness.
- Active travel: Walking, biking, or scooting to school initiatives.
- Themed activity weeks or challenge days: Events that promote whole-school movement in a fun, inclusive way.
The key is to provide variety and consistency, ensuring pupils of all abilities and interests can participate. How can primary schools increase physical activity levels each day? The strategies listed can help.
How Sprint Active Helps Schools Embed Daily Movement
At Sprint Active, we offer multiple ways to increase physical activity in primary schools through structured, high-quality programming. Alongside curriculum PE, we provide:
- Active lunch clubs and structured play
- Morning fitness and enrichment sessions
- Movement-based wraparound care
- Pupil-led activity ambassador training
- Whole-school fitness weeks and challenge events
Our team helps you integrate physical activity into your school’s daily routine in a way that’s sustainable, inclusive, and fun. Whether you want to improve pupil focus, tackle inactivity, or align with PE and Sport Premium goals, we provide the planning, staffing, and resources to make it happen.
👉 Find out how we help schools stay active all day on the School Services page
