The government has announced a reduction in funding for primary school sports, replacing the annual £320m sports premium with a new £193m scheme covering secondary schools as well. The decision, made days before closing a consultation on children’s social media use, has been met with criticism from primary school leaders, who cite the haste of the change.
Under the new model, outside clubs and coaches will play a larger role, a move supported by Sport England. However, experts warn that the cut comes at a time when childhood obesity is a major public health challenge and concerns about screen use are high. New guidance recommends no screens for children under two except with adults, and further restrictions on older children’s online activity are expected, including a possible ban on under-16s using social media.
The responsibility for school sports is fragmented across government departments. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is focused on special educational needs reform, while Sports Minister Steph Peacock sits in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The Department of Health and Social Care previously clashed with Ms Phillipson’s team over a proposed £60m cut to PE funding, which was reversed after protests.
Last year’s curriculum review suggested modest changes to PE teaching, emphasising inclusivity and noting that too many activities can prevent mastery. It highlighted the role of PE in promoting wellbeing and competition. An upcoming report from Alan Milburn on the 1 million 16- to 24-year-olds not in education or employment is expected to criticise the amount of time young people spend alone.
Ministers have been urged to ensure that children’s sport does not suffer due to lack of clear ownership. Cutting funding for primary PE while trying to reduce screen time has been described as an own goal by the government.
