The benefits of sport are well-known, with recent research linking it to high achievement, writes Sarah Wicks
I ask parents, as well as the pupils, what they consider a key deciding factor in the choice of which school to choose, access to sport is often high on the list. In fact, it is often said to be one of the main advantages of the independent system which is why schools take such pride in their sporting provision.
In sharp contrast to the state system, pupils at independent school will, on average, take part in sport for over five hours per week, compared to their two. This is not simply because independent schools are keeping up their long held sporting traditions but because the advantage of pupils taking part in sport in backed by scientific studies. The Benefits
Physical activity is vital to the ?total? development of young people, challenging and nurturing their physical, social and emotional health. The benefits of sport reach beyond the impact on physical wellbeing. There is a growing body of research that links sport to improvements in achievement, which should not be under-estimated.
In a world where increasing numbers of children and young adults suffer from mental health issues, the value of sport for mind and body could not be more crucial. With increased exercise, general fitness and stamina will improve, it improves self-confidence as well as providing an avenue to release stress and tension.
Something for Everyone
With the variety of sports on off...