Physical Activity

At Scoil na mBuachaillí, physical activity is an essential and enjoyable part of everyday school life. As part of our Active School Flag journey, we ensure that all pupils are more active, more often, through inclusive and well-planned opportunities across the school day.

Physical activity is regularly discussed at staff meetings, where teachers reflect on ways to further increase movement and reduce sedentary time for all pupils. All classes benefit from twice-daily playground breaks, during which pupils are encouraged to run, play and engage in active games. A wide range of sports equipment is available at break times to promote participation and variety.

Our school operates a successful Playground Leaders programme. Pupils from Junior Infants to 6th class support positive and inclusive play by organising and refereeing games, bringing equipment to the yard and running soccer and basketball leagues. In addition, the Playground Pals Programme pairs senior pupils with younger classes, with 6th class supporting Junior Infants during playtime to promote inclusion, leadership and a sense of belonging.

The Active School Walkway is a key resource in promoting daily physical activity. All teachers use the walkway regularly for active breaks and Learning on the Move activities. Learning on the Move is implemented consistently across all class levels, allowing pupils to engage in curriculum-linked learning while remaining physically active. Activities support literacy, numeracy and SESE learning through walking tasks, observation activities, problem-solving challenges and movement-based learning, both within the school grounds and through nature walks and local area exploration.

Whole-school initiatives further support physical activity. Every class participates in a four-week ‘Active Break Every Day’ challenge, using Active School Flag resources to ensure daily movement. All classes also take part in a four-week ‘Learning on the Move’ challenge – Run Around Europe, where pupils use the running track daily, track collective progress across Europe and learn about each country visited.

Physical activity is also incorporated into whole-school celebrations, initiatives and themed weeks. All Active School activities are planned to be inclusive and accessible for all pupils.