The Department for Education has officially confirmed that PE and Sport Premium funding will continue for the 2025/26 academic year, a welcome relief for schools across England.
While the announcement is a huge win for physical education in primary schools, it also comes with increased expectations. Now more than ever, schools must not only spend their PE and Sport Premium wisely, but also evidence its impact clearly to secure the long term future of this vital funding.
Why 2025/26 Matters More Than Ever
The continuation of the premium is not guaranteed beyond next year. The DfE has made it clear that for the funding to be sustained, schools must show measurable, long term benefits from how it’s used. This makes the upcoming year a pivotal moment, not only to improve pupil outcomes, but to protect this budget for the years to come.
What Can the PE and Sport Premium Be Spent On?
The PE and Sport Premium must be used to make additional and sustainable improvements to the quality of PE, physical activity, and sport. It cannot be used to fund core PE provision already provided as part of the curriculum. Instead, schools should invest in strategies that leave a lasting impact. Here are some key areas where the funding can be used effectively:
1. Upskilling Teachers Through CPD
Investing in high quality continuing professional development (CPD) for teachers enhances in house PE delivery. This not only builds staff confidence and capability, but ensures sustainability beyond the funding period.
2. Expanding Extra-Curricular Opportunities
Lunchtime clubs, after-school sports, and enrichment sessions provide additional access to physical activity especially for pupils who may not otherwise engage. These can help improve behaviour, focus, and overall well-being.
3. Increasing Participation in Competitive Sport
Funding can support entry into inter-school tournaments, sports kits, equipment, or transport to ensure children have opportunities to represent their school and develop teamwork and resilience.
4. Purchasing High-Quality Equipment
Upgrading or replacing PE equipment can transform the quality and safety of sessions. Better equipment = more engaging, inclusive, and challenging lessons.
5. Developing a More Active School Day
Active travel initiatives, active playtimes, or integrating movement across the curriculum are all smart, strategic ways to embed physical activity into daily life.
6. Engaging Less Active Pupils
Targeted intervention programmes or clubs designed for children who are less physically active can have a powerful impact on confidence, engagement, and overall health outcomes.
Evidencing Your Spend: A Priority for 2025/26
The DfE requires schools to publish a detailed breakdown of how the funding has been used on their website, including
-
Total amount received
-
How it has been spent (and why)
-
The impact it has made on pupils’ PE and sport participation and attainment
-
How the improvements are sustainable in the long term
This is not a box ticking exercise, it’s a key factor in the continued justification of the funding. Schools need a clear strategy in place to track, measure, and report outcomes meaningfully.
Looking Ahead and Planning for Maximum Impact
Whether your school is already making full use of the PE and Sport Premium or still unsure how to allocate it for long-term value, this year is your opportunity to invest in strategies that will have real, lasting impact.
If you’d like support in mapping out a tailored plan for your school, whether it’s around CPD, club provision, or building a whole-school physical activity strategy we’re happy to help.
Get in touch to arrange a planning session and take the first step toward a purposeful, high-quality provision for 2025/26.
