LEAP: supporting primary schools

LEAP (Learning Environments for Active People) is a whole-school programme designed for primary schools to help children be healthier, happier and more active throughout the school day. 

School children getting active outdoors

What is LEAP? 

LEAP takes a holistic approach to embedding play, movement, and active learning into the school day. By combining tailored professional development for teachers and staff with practical support, we work alongside schools to tackle the challenges of an increasingly sedentary childhood. 

The programme focuses on four key areas: 

  • Breaks and lunchtimes: maximising opportunities for play and movement 
  • PE: enriching physical education and building staff confidence 
  • Curriculum time (non-PE): weaving activity into lessons and classroom time 
  • Clubs, active travel and events: extending opportunities for movement beyond the classroom 

What does the programme involve? 

  • Audit day: a member of the Rise team spends a day in school, observing playtimes, exploring the school environment, speaking with staff and children, and gathering insights from surveys with staff and parents. 
  • Tailored recommendations: schools receive a tailored report packed with practical, actionable strategies and recommendations to increase activity opportunities across the whole day. 
  • Staff CPD (online or in-person): a practical session designed to fit into after-school meeting time. This introduces the Chief Medical Officers’ guidelines, explores the benefits of physical activity for children and highlights how LEAP can make an impact in your school. 
  • Ongoing support: access to further CPD, resources, and a network of schools, enabling staff to share best practice and receive continued guidance as changes are implemented. 
Information:

100% of participants agreed that physical activity was incredibly important for children. Yet, only 20% of staff were aware of Chief Medical Officer national guidelines prior to starting their LEAP journey.

 “There are lots of practical ideas for us to implement across the whole school environment in the coming months.” 

– Steph Taylor, teacher and outdoor learning lead

“I love the lessons where you move a lot. It makes it 10 times better!” – Year 6 child

For the academic year 24/25 this programme was fully funded by the North East Combined Authority.

Get involved

Are you interested in how LEAP can help your school? Get in contact with us today to learn more.

Contact details

Get in touch with Louise Wallace, Children and Young People Development Manager, to learn more:

Email
[email protected]
Phone number
07794312745