Understanding PE and Sport Premium Funding for Primary Schools
The most significant source of dedicated funding for physical activity in primary schools is the PE and Sport Premium. This is a government grant provided to help schools improve the quality and sustainability of their PE, sport, and physical activity provision.
This ring-fenced funding is allocated annually to all primary schools in England with pupils in Years 1 to 6. The amount a school receives depends on the number of eligible pupils on roll. Most schools receive a base amount of £16,000 plus an additional £10 per pupil.
The goal of the PE and Sport Premium funding for primary schools is to ensure that all pupils develop the knowledge, skills, and motivation to lead active, healthy lives both in and out of school.
How Can Schools Use PE and Sport Premium Funding?
Schools must use their funding to make additional and sustainable improvements to the quality of their PE and sport provision. Permissible uses of the grant include:
- Hiring qualified PE specialists or sports coaches
- Purchasing new PE equipment
- Providing staff CPD and training
- Introducing new sports or physical activities
- Increasing participation in after-school clubs or inter-school competitions
- Improving swimming provision
- Embedding physical activity into the school day
Importantly, the funding must not be used for core curriculum delivery that schools are already required to provide. It must enhance or add to existing provision.
Schools are required to publish how they have spent their funding on their website. They must demonstrate the impact it has had on pupils’ physical development and participation levels.
Why PE Funding Matters
The PE and Sport Premium provides schools with a powerful opportunity to invest in meaningful, long-lasting improvements. With increased national focus on children’s health, fitness, and mental wellbeing, this funding allows schools to expand their offer. They can also close participation gaps and create a school culture that values active living.
Ofsted expects schools to show that they are using this funding effectively. During inspections, schools may be asked for evidence of how the funding is raising standards and increasing access. They should also show how it is improving outcomes for pupils. This is particularly important for those who are less active or have additional needs.
How Sprint Active Supports PE and Sport Premium Funding for Primary Schools
Sprint Active helps schools maximise the impact of their PE and Sport Premium funding for primary schools by providing cost-effective, measurable, and sustainable solutions. We offer curriculum PE delivery, lunchtime and after-school clubs, enrichment programmes, wraparound care, and staff CPD. Our services are all aligned with DfE guidance on Sport Premium use.
We also provide:
- Termly impact reports
- Participation data
- Assessment tools
- Safeguarding and compliance documentation
- Planning support and full programme management
Whether your school needs a full PE provider or targeted support to improve physical activity levels, we’ll help you deliver provision that makes a measurable difference. Our services also satisfy inspection criteria.
👉 Find out how we help schools make the most of their PE funding on the School Services page
