In England, the “Sports Premium” (officially the PE & Sport Premium) is extra government funding given to primary schools. Its purpose is to improve the quality of physical education (PE), sport, and physical activity for pupils.

Here are the key points:

What it is

  • Ring-fenced grant funding: schools must spend it specifically on improving PE, sport, and physical activity.
  • Intended to help children live healthier, more active lives, build a love for sport, improve skills, wellbeing, behaviour, and can also contribute to academic achievement.
  • Emphasis on sustainability: the improvements made should have lasting impact.

Who it applies to

  • Most state primary schools in England (i.e. those with pupils aged ~5-11, Years 1-6) are eligible.
  • Nursery schools, certain independent schools, studio schools, etc., are generally not eligible.

How much funding

  • For 2024-25, schools with 17 or more eligible pupils receive a base amount of £16,000, plus £10 per eligible pupil. GOV.UK
  • If a school has 16 or fewer eligible pupils, they get £1,000 per pupil. GOV.UK

What it can be used for

The funding must be used in ways that give additional and sustainable improvements in PE, sport, and physical activity. Some allowed uses include:

  • Teacher training / professional development in PE so staff are more confident and skilled.
  • Buying equipment, improving facilities that support PE, sport, and daily physical activity.
  • Providing a broader range of sports and physical activities, including those not usually available.
  • Increasing participation: extracurricular sports, competitive opportunities, engaging the least active pupils.
  • Swimming / water safety lessons for those who haven’t met national curriculum requirements.
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