As physical education (PE) plays a pivotal role in the holistic development of children, it's essential to ensure inclusivity so that all students, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), can participate and benefit from sports and physical activities. Engaging SEND pupils in PE and school sports can be challenging due to diverse abilities and needs, but you can create an inclusive and supportive environment with the right strategies. Here are some practical tips to help you effectively engage SEND pupils in your PE classes and school sports programmes.

Understanding individual needs

1. Conduct thorough assessments
Before designing your PE activities, complete comprehensive assessments to understand each SEND pupil's unique needs and abilities. Work closely with SEND coordinators, occupational therapists, and parents to gather detailed information. This will help you tailor your activities to ensure they are accessible and beneficial for all students.

2. D...

At Aspire, we recognise the power of coaching as a catalyst for change, not just in sports but in every walk of life where guidance is invaluable. Yet, there's an undeniable gap — an underrepresentation of women in coaching roles, which, in turn, affects the diversity and inclusivity of our industry. It's time to address this imbalance and nurture the potential of female coaches who can act as role models and mentors for the next generation.

Acknowledging the 'Gender Play Gap'
A report highlighted by the Telegraph throws light on the 'gender play gap' that stops girls from taking up sport, an issue raised by MPs that has far-reaching implications. This gap not only reduces physical activity amongst young girls but also significantly limits the pool of potential female coaches in the future. By addressing this play gap and encouraging more young women to participate in sports, we lay the groundwork for a more robust pipeline of future coaches.

The increasing need for women in sport coachin...