Every primary schoolchild in England and Wales is to be guaranteed sports and PE lessons provided by coaches from top football clubs, David Cameron is set to announce.
The Premier League is to expand its school sports programme from 4,100 schools to 10,000 schools by 2018 and to every primary school by 2021.
The scheme, which involves community coaches both from Premier League and Football League clubs, offers age-appropriate sports sessions as well as running after-school clubs and competitive tournaments. Clubs hope the initiative will increase pupils’ fitness levels and tackle childhood obesity.
Speaking ahead of the Conservative conference in Manchester, Mr Cameron said: “Every child should have the opportunity to play sport, benefit from great coaching and be part of a team. I am delighted we have struck a deal with the Premier League to expand their work to all primary schools. This is part of our plan to give every child the best possible start in life.”
Richard Scudamore, the Premier League’s executive chairman, said: “Clubs have always accepted that with success come responsibilities to the communities that sustain the game”.
He added: “We want all young people throughout the country to enjoy sport and help make it part of their lives. With the Prime Minister’s support we can now make that ambition a reality.”
