Effective professional learning in physical activity

This milestone report is the fourth and final for the research project ‘Evaluative research on the impact of effective professional learning in curricular and co-curricular physical activity in primary schools.’ The research was commissioned by the Ministry of Education and conducted from December 2005 to March 2007.

The broader context of the research was the Physical Activity Initiative, a joint Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, and Sport and Recreation New Zealand initiative, encompassing the provision for professional development of primary teachers in curricular and co-curricular physical activity. Schools involved in Model 2 of the Physical Activity Initiative, were expected to engage in professional development delivered by School Support Services and Regional Sports Trusts during 2006. The specific purpose of the research was to explore the impacts of professional learning (Model 2), in physical activity, curricular and co-curricular, on primary school teachers, students, and wider school community. In addition, a literature review was developed to explore the national and international literature on physical activity in primary school. Furthermore, gaps in the literature and research evidence were identified, and suggestions were made to enhance the effectiveness of physical activity, curricular and co-curricular in primary school settings.