Physical activity programmes for secondary schools in wales: Implications from a pilot scheme

In 2004 a pilot scheme was launched in Wales to address the physical activity participation patterns of young people. A large survey (n 5 1834) was conducted at six schools to investigate the participation patterns of 12214-year-olds. The data gathered informed the design and delivery of programmes of extra-curricular activities introduced at each of the schools in 2005. The implementation of these was based on a partnership between physical education professionals and sports development practitioners. A review of the programmes (from seven interviews with gatekeepers plus 11 focus groups involving 43 young people) revealed that they were perceived to be successful around three central themes: the activities provided, and by whom; those engaging with the programme, and why; and the role of the key agents (the School Sports Organizers).