Exercise: Children in Wales doing more activity, survey finds

Willows High School in Cardiff used the data from the survey to develop new ways of increasing physical activity, including an “enrichment programme”.

Jane Crawshaw, leader of enrichment at the school, said it offered activities including rock climbing and bouldering, swimming, self-defence, cycling, cricket, football and boxing.

“It improves their attendance because they love doing these activities, and we get to see them smiling and happy and achieving something that they might not have ordinarily done,” she added.

Pupils said the programme had brought them a number of benefits.

“I don’t do much sport outside of school but this is better because you learn so much and it’s made me consider trying other sports like football, climbing, and boxing,” said Husnaia, 12.

Jayden, 12, said he played football at the weekend but he also enjoyed the opportunity to do activities at school.

Ameeia, 15, said: “I don’t get a chance to do this outside of school, because it costs a lot, so it’s a privilege.”