Inclusion in physical activity
Inclusive physical activity is the philosophy and practice of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ability or age, have equal opportunity in physical activity. This opportunity should include options and decision making and create meaningful participation and success that empower all participants.
Kasser and Lytle, 2005
Physical activity is an area where it is vital that there is a whole-school approach to inclusion. Evidence shows that children with additional support needs are less likely to participate in physical education (PE) and out-of-school activities.
Focus on ability
Inclusion within physical activity requires a focus on ability rather than disability. Kasser and Lytle (2005) outline a philosophy for inclusive physical activity, which includes the following beliefs:
- each person is unique, with differing, cognitive, emotional and social capabilities and needs
- everyone has a right to, and can benefit from, inclusive physical activity opportunities
- the abilities of an individual are always changing; they relate to the individual, the context and the particular task or activity
- participants have a right to personal choice and decision-making
- each individual in an inclusive physical activity setting benefits from the experience of others.
In order for these beliefs to be supported a school needs to address the following areas.
Attitudes
A school's attitudes and perceptions will have a significant impact on whether or not the school is fully inclusive. There needs to be:
- a strong policy of support for inclusion – negotiated and agreed with school staff, pupils and families
- awareness-raising of the issues surrounding inclusion
- opportunities for staff and pupils to express their anxieties and concerns about working with and supporting those with additional support needs.
Environment
Resources, facilities and the environment need to be well resourced. The Disability Discrimination Act, 1996, specifies that all school facilities must be equipped to support pupils with additional support needs. However, this does not necessarily mean that the facilities will be fully accessible. Communication and attitudes can impact on access to facilities by pupils with additional support needs. Schools should consider whether additional equipment is required to ensure that all pupils can take part in PE and extra-curricular activities.
Continuing professional development (CPD)
Evidence suggests that teachers' perceptions of their own competence and ability will have a big impact on their attitude towards inclusion, particularly in the area of PE and physical activity.
Support and professional development are both essential if staff are to develop the understanding and confidence needed for effective and positive work with all their pupils.
CPD should include opportunities for training and mentoring in the area of inclusion. Scottish Disability Sport offer disability awareness training as well as SportSability training to schools. Further information can be obtained from the Scottish Disability Sport National Development Officer (tel: 0131 317 1130). Other courses are available from Sports Coach UK (tel: 0131 317 7200).
Involving pupils
The best way for schools to be fully inclusive is to involve pupils in the planning stages. Simply asking them for their views can be the easiest way to assess their level of involvement. Inclusive physical activity should ensure opportunity and choice, with meaningful programmes tailored to individual needs.
Useful resource
Susan L. Kasser and Rebecca K. Lytle, 'Inclusive Physical Activity, A lifetime of Opportunities', Human Kinetics 2005
Useful links
Scottish Disability Sport
Provides facilities for, and encourages the development of, sport and physical recreation for disabled people. Programmes are offered to people of all ages and abilities who have physical, sensory or learning disabilities.
Sports Coach UK
Works to support sports coaching by providing a strategic vision, research and development, education, training and expert advice.
Youth Sport Trust
A registered charity that aims to support the education and development of all young people through PE and sport.
