New programme aims to get Scottish secondary school pupils moving
Moray House’s Physical Activity for Health Research Centre (PAHRC), alongside the University of Stirling and the University of the Highlands and Islands, have received funding from the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) and Active Scotland to introduce a programme that seeks to increase pupils’ daily activity.
Partnership
PAHRC (Moray House, University of Edinburgh), an institute committed to research surrounding physical activity and health, is partnering with the University of Stirling, the University of the Highlands and Islands and Paths for All to support an innovative programme combining academic knowledge and research with programmes in Scottish secondary schools.
The programme
The programme aims to improve the health and wellbeing of young people by creating a culture of walking outside and during the school day. Young people will take part in Step Count Challenges while leading walks for their peers - promoting awareness of the benefits of walking.
The programme was inspired by data from 2022 that revealed only 65% of boys and 43% of girls met current physical activity recommendations. By collaborating with young people and including them in the design, the programme aims to empower and inspire pupils to increase their physical activity and become healthier, gaining confidence in their movements in school and life.
Positive steps
Linking academic research with high school programme delivery and involving young people in the process, will be hugely significant. The project leads anticipate this programme will have a positive impact on the everyday lives of those involved.
We are delighted to bring Moray House and our Physical Activity for Health Research Centre’s expertise in walking promotion to this exciting new project that will directly impact health and wellbeing for young people in Scotland.