Earlier last week the Government announced more than £1 billion of new funding over the next three years to expand access to physical education and school sport, in what ministers describe as a “major step” toward ensuring every child has equal opportunities to be active.
The joint announcement from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and the Department for Education (DfE) confirms the creation of a new PE and School Sport Partnership Network, backed by £580 million, which will bring “national sporting expertise” into every primary and secondary school. The network is expected to be fully operational by Spring 2027. This will eventually replace the existing PE and Sport Premium, however there will be a one-off £100 million PE Premium payment to support primary schools during the transition period.
A Major Overhaul of School Sport Provision
The new PE and School Sport Partnership Network is designed to tackle inactivity and widen participation by embedding specialist support directly into schools. Ministers say the long‑term ambition is to ensure that all children and young people regardless of background have access to high‑quality sport, physical activity, and facilities.
Alongside the new network, the Government confirmed a wider package of investment, including:
- £580 million to establish the new PE and School Sport Partnerships Network, which forms the central pillar of the Government’s long‑term strategy for school sport
- £166 million to deliver the second instalment of the PE Premium for the 2025/26 academic year, alongside continued funding for the School Games Organisers Network through to the end of 2026/27
- £200 million in capital investment to upgrade and modernise school sports facilities
- £100 million in transitional funding to support primary schools as the new system is phased in
“A Step Change in School Sport”
Ministers say the new £1bn package represents a “step change” in how school sport is delivered, shifting from short‑term grants to a more sustainable, system‑wide model.
The Government are hoping that the new network will help schools access specialist coaching, improve curriculum delivery, and strengthen links with local and national sporting bodies.
Next Steps
The transition from the current PE and Sport Premium to the new partnership model will take place over the next year, with full rollout planned for Spring 2027. Schools will receive guidance later this year on how the new system will operate and how funding will be allocated.
The Government says the investment reflects its commitment to tackling inactivity, improving children’s health, and ensuring that sport and physical activity are embedded into everyday school life.
Click here to see Andy Taylor CEO of the Active Partnerships National Organsation response to the announcement.
