Applications are closing soon for the Coalition’s popular Sporting Schools program and Mark Coulton, Member for the Parkes electorate, is encouraging all local schools in his electorate to apply.
“Sport and physical activity are an important part of holistic childhood development, and I’d like to get more children across the Parkes electorate active,” Mr Coulton said.
“I’m pleased to see that more Australian kids are growing up with this important national program, which continues to grow at a fantastic rate.
“What I like about this program is that it requires no financial outlay or time commitment from parents, and gives all children the chance to try a range of different sports.”
Almost 80 per cent of Australian schools have registered for Sporting Schools over the lifetime of the program, and more than 150 schools are being funded for the first time this term.
Mr Coulton explained an early connection to sport can encourage a lifelong love of physical activity.
“Statistics show more than 80 per cent of children are not getting enough physical activity and that 27 per cent of children aged 5-17 are overweight or obese.
“Time and expense are often cited among the barriers to sport participation, but Sporting Schools allows improved access for all children to enjoy sport.”
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) manages Sporting Schools in partnership with more than 30 different national sporting organisations to deliver sport before, during and after school hours. The program is provided free to children and their families, and is underpinned by the quality assurance of NSO-endorsed sporting coaches and products.
Having initially started in primary schools, the program has expanded to include targeted secondary schools. It is part of a $230 million package for sport participation and physical activity initiatives announced in the 2018-19 Budget to encourage more Australians to be more active.
More information about Sporting Schools program can be found at https://www.sportingschools.gov.au/
Media Contact: Anna Tickle 0400 050 729
