Ali Oliver MBE, CEO of the Youth Sport Trust, has passionately called for PE lessons and daily physical activity to be given higher priority in schools, emphasizing that the nation needs sport in education now more than ever. Speaking at Holte High School in Birmingham during National School Sports Week, Oliver underscored the powerful benefits regular exercise brings to young people’s physical and mental health.
Oliver, who previously served as Deputy Director of Sport at the University of Bath, attended the vibrant event where Muslim girls were encouraged to participate in sports. The day featured inspiring talks from athletes and teachers advocating for greater inclusion of under-represented groups in school sport.
Now in its fourth year, National School Sports Week is run in partnership with Sports Direct, with Everlast—a Sports Direct brand—and boxing star Conor Benn supporting this year’s campaign. The theme, This Summer of Sport, coincides with major global events such as the men’s football World Cup, Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup, Wimbledon, and the Commonwealth Games, motivating young people to get active and discover sports that excite them.
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Throughout the week, schools are hosting inclusive events with free adaptable resources, including a Commonwealth Games-inspired circuit, retro playground games, football activities, and a special boxing-themed Conor Benn Destroyer Circuit. To support participation, Sports Direct has donated 500 equipment packs to registered schools and 65 sports bras worth nearly £2,000 to Holte High, promoting breast health as well as access to sport for all students.
Oliver emphasized, “PE must help every young person find an exercise or sport they enjoy and understand why movement is essential. Sport nurtures mental wellbeing, teamwork, resilience, communication, and respect—life skills critical for young people’s futures.” She acknowledged how sport can deeply impact a child’s school experience, describing how for some, simply bringing their boots to school is the highlight of their week.
National School Sports Week travels around the UK, showcasing exceptional school sports programs in cities including London, Manchester, North Wales, and Bournemouth. During the event at Holte High School, students heard from Commonwealth Games hopeful Noorin Gulam and took part in discussions about breast health and open family conversations.
Reflecting on the transformation of school sport, Oliver said, “PE isn’t what it used to be. Today’s programmes are inclusive, relevant, and integral to the curriculum. The festival at Holte is particularly inspiring—active Muslim girls breaking barriers and empowering each other to belong through sport.” She hopes other schools will take inspiration from Holte and strive to overcome cultural and social challenges to make sport accessible for every young person.
The Youth Sport Trust, founded in 1995, is a leading children’s charity in the UK dedicated to improving young people’s wellbeing through sport and play. Working with around 20,000 schools, it empowers educators and young people to create inclusive environments where everyone can experience the transformative power of physical activity.