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Giving children and young people a sporting chance

Scotland’s strategy for children and young people 2

OUR VISION: is a great environment for children and young people to embark on lifelong participation in sport. 3 KEY THEMES:

Great Opportunities

providing opportunities for children and young people to participate in sport

Great People

developing and supporting leaders and workers

Great Places providing great places to be active through sport

Higher Profile

celebrating and communicating opportunities to take part in sport and the talents and successes of children and young people 4

Contents

1. Joint Foreword 5

2. Introduction 7

3. Vision, principles and outcomes 14

4. Next steps 26

5. Annex – Actions 27 5

1. Joint Foreword

Young People’s Sport Panel people – something that is really important to us as a panel of young It is fantastic to see Scotland’s sport leaders. strategy for children and young people published, particularly in such The Young People’s Sport an important and exciting year for Panel will continue to be . The Young People’s actively involved in the Sport Panel has played a central role strategy and we look in the strategy from the beginning, forward to working with helping to shape the document and you to make the vision a Katie providing feedback at each stage. We reality! Scotland – a great wanted to represent the views and environment for children Clucas ideas of young people and are really and young people to pleased and proud to see that this is embark on lifelong an integral part of the strategy. participation in sport.

One of our key roles as a sport panel is to influence and shape the future of and COSLA sport – we believe that this document achieves that – and provides a strong, We are delighted to launch Giving clear and exciting focus on sport for children and young people a sporting young people. The strategy also chance, Scotland’s sport strategy for highlights the collective responsibility children and young people. we all have to play in making it happen. The importance of being physically active is widely understood and we We can’t think of a more exciting time believe there is a particular role for to be launching this strategy – we are sport in ensuring that children and in a great place to make the most of young people develop a lifelong habit all the fantastic sport opportunities in of activity. That has never been more 2014 and to make sure that as a result true than in this special year when we capitalise on this and have more Scotland sees both the Commonwealth young people taking part in, and Games and on its shores. enjoying sport. But sport does not just have the We are confident in the future of power to deliver better health. It can sport for young people in Scotland also contribute to wider wellbeing, and believe this strategy will not only enabling children and young people to increase the opportunities to build relationships and learn skills participate in sport but also increase that they need in to be the number of leadership successful, confident and responsible opportunities available for young citizens. 6

It is crucial, however, that we do not providing sporting opportunities assume that we know what children through a wide range of activities and and young people want. The Young provision, to achieve better health People’s Sport Panel has played an and wellbeing outcomes for important role in shaping this our children and young people. document and consultation work has been undertaken directly with The consultation stressed, too, the children and young people by Young need for greater collaboration to Scot, the Children’s and ensure the best possible outcomes. Scotland’s for Children The Scottish Government and COSLA and Young People. recognise that positive outcomes for the people of Scotland will be best We have published material alongside delivered by working with people – this document which sets out the drawing on the talents and abilities of results of that work, and the more our communities – rather than doing standard consultation approach, in things to them. Improving on current detail. This is a fantastic resource delivery will require consistent shared which should help to guide the actions endeavour by many organisations and of all who are involved in the delivery individuals – developing and sharing of sport for children and young knowledge on current provision, what people, now and in the future. We works, and what more can be done. must build on this work, ensuring that children and young people have their This document is part of that process voices heard in the ongoing delivery – setting out a vision, principles and of sport. outcomes which can guide the actions that we collectively take to deliver Of course we are not starting from sport for children and young people in scratch. The consultation has Scotland over the next 10 years. We highlighted the positive role already look forward to seeing it happen. being played in communities across Scotland by a wide range of partners including , , Local Councils, Scottish Governing Bodies of Sport, clubs, schools, and Further Education institutions, the third sector, , Active Schools staff, Shona Robison Councillor Harry volunteers, parents and carers. Local Cabinet Secretary for McGuigan Authorities and Leisure Trusts in , COSLA Spokesperson particular make a huge contribution to Sport, Equalities and for Community the delivery of Scotland’s sport, Pensioners’ Wellbeing 7

2. Introduction

On 9 December 2013, we published The strategy recognises the benefits Giving Children and Young People a that involvement in sport can bring in Sporting Chance – A Draft Strategy for relation to being healthy and active, Scotland which we developed with a and the contribution that can make to working group of key stakeholders.1 the wellbeing of children and young people as set out in the Getting it Right We undertook a formal consultation for Every Child (GIRFEC) approach. on the document, and alongside that, worked with the Young People’s Sport Panel, Young Scot, the Children’s Parliament and Scotland’s Commissioner for Children and Young Great sporting opportunities for People (the Commissioner) to ensure children are about friendship, that we got the views of children and learning, excitement, challenge, young people. achievement and being fit and healthy.” Almost 3,000 children and young Children’s Parliament consultation people contributed their views to the consultation. It recognises that there is already a great to tell. The provision of sport for children and young people This strategy rests on the rich in Scotland has many strengths, with information which that consultation many individuals and organisations provided. A range of documents willingly playing important roles in have been published alongside the its delivery. strategy, including a full analysis of the consultation responses. We would urge those involved in the delivery of sport for children and young people, and those who could be, to consider how this material can help inform the work they do.

1 The working group consisted of representatives from the Scottish Government, the Young People’s Sport Panel, sportscotland, Education Scotland, ADES, COSLA, VOCAL, the Scottish Sports Association, Scottish Disability Sport, Scottish Student Sport, Youth Scotland, Young Scot, and Scotland’s Commissioner for Children and Young People. 8

It reflects the strong message from Where we are now the consultation that there is a need for a long-term approach, based on In many ways the experience of sport new and sustained collaboration and for children and young people in integrated working across a wide range Scotland is already strong. of organisations. 70 per cent of children in Scotland It recognises that children and young meet the recommended guidelines people are individuals who need and of being active for at least an hour want different things. It recognises that a day – and most of this activity is sport should be for all, regardless of through active play and through age, gender, race, disability, geography sport. or other factors which could limit participation. Delivery of sport involves a wide range of stakeholders including sportscotland, Education Scotland, Scottish Governing Bodies of Sport, clubs, schools, Higher and Further Education institutions, the Everyone’s taking part should third sector, volunteers, parents and be celebrated. Even if you lose carers, amongst others. you should have a party. You should celebrate as a team.” Local Authorities, in particular, play a key role, having the statutory Children’s Parliament consultation responsibility to ensure that there is adequate provision of sporting It emphasises the need to put children facilities and undertaking significant and young people’s views at the heart work to ensure there are opportunities of how sport is planned and delivered. for children and young people in their Most importantly it gives us a basis for local area. working together to achieve the vision that “Scotland is a great environment for Local Authorities provide nearly children and young people to embark on 90 per cent of public sector lifelong participation in sport.” investment in sport.

There is widespread recognition of the importance of children being active from an early age, and for the need for opportunities to develop through sport in schools and into Higher and Further Education and adulthood.

Research tells us that encouraging children to be active from an early age is vital to developing a healthier lifestyle, and this is reflected in Scotland’s first national Play Strategy and the associated Action Plan published in 2013. 9

Curriculum for Excellence, which covers Inclusion Training programme is giving children and young people from age training to up to 1,000 teachers and is a 3-18, places a huge level of importance key part of the development of coaches on (PE), physical in disability. activity and sport as a key element of learning in Health and Wellbeing. In recognition of the efforts of those schools who put quality PE and school It mandates that children and sport at the heart of their planning, young people should enjoy daily sportscotland is currently piloting opportunities to participate in physical the School Sport Awards initiative in activities and sport at their place of three local authority areas. Following learning and in the wider community. learning from the pilot and feedback This is particularly important in the form the schools and partners early stages of learning and is the involved, the Awards will be further responsibility of all staff in developed. and school environments. The Active Schools network, supported To support schools to deliver high- by up to £12 million investment by quality learning experiences in PE, sportscotland, is responsible for £11.6 million is being invested by providing opportunities for children and Education Scotland and sportscotland young people to participate in sport over 2012-13 to 2015-16. This will before, during and after school. It also contribute in a number of ways plays an important role in developing including through continued roll-out effective pathways between schools and of Better Movers and Thinkers which clubs – the mainstay of opportunities to develops movement, rhythm and develop an interest in sport. problem-solving skills essential for participation in a wide range of sports. In the 2012-13 academic year, It will also allow for continued the Active Schools programme engagement with Education provided 270,000 Activity Institutions to ensure quality PE training Sessions in a range of over forms part of initial teacher training. 100 different sports/activities.

In 2013, 89 per cent of schools Clubs are the places where time can were meeting the target of at be spent practising and playing with least two hours of PE in primary the support of coaches and leaders schools and two periods in and where a sense of belonging and secondary schools, in S1-S4. interest in the wider aspects of the sport can be nurtured – volunteering, To ensure that teachers have the leading and organising sport. Scottish knowledge, skills and experience to Governing Bodies of Sport have a include disabled young people fully in major role to play in supporting their quality PE, the Scottish Government, clubs to create the right climate and through Education Scotland, has opportunities for young people. provided Scottish Disability Sport with £125,000 to offer both PE and Scottish Governing Bodies of Sport classroom teachers across Scotland support 13,000 clubs to provide to training. This PE Disability local sporting opportunities across every community in Scotland. 10

Higher and Further Education By March 2018, the Schools for institutions provide significant the Future Programme will see the opportunities to take part in sport, construction of 67 new schools as well as playing a crucial role built for over 46,000 pupils – through the provision of academic and with £800 million provided by vocational sport and exercise courses. the Scottish Government and £450 million by Local Authorities. 3.4 million visits in 2013 to sports facilities in universities, up from Efforts are also being made to further 1.8 million in 2006.2 open and encourage greater use of the facilities that the school estate Around one-half of universities can offer. This is enshrined in the (53 per cent) organise competitive Scottish Government-COSLA School leagues/intra-mural sports Estate Strategy Building Better Schools: programmes.2 Investing in Scotland’s Future.

The opportunities to take part in sport In addition to formal sports facilities, are supported by having great places children and young people need to do so and great people to support a range of open and informal children and young people. recreational places to play sport, such as skate parks, adventure play parks, Scotland has seen a transformation bike trails and walking routes. in the capital infrastructure for sport. The scale of new national, regional The £10 million Active Places and local facilities for sport, combined Fund to date has supported 111 with the school estate modernisation projects in 26 Local Authority programme mean that we have never areas. been as well served by great sports facilities across Scotland. The Scottish Government has provided a £3 million funding Since May 2007, over £86 million package over three years to of Scottish Government and increase free play opportunities. Lottery funds have been invested in sports facilities.3 Day in, day out and week after week, there are vast numbers of teachers, All 32 Local Authorities have volunteers, parents and coaches approved plans for a Community who give their time, energy and Sport Hub, and of 131 being commitment to encourage children and developed, 61 per cent are around young people to enjoy sport, have fun a school. and keep active.

2 An Audit of Sports Provision in the University 195,000 volunteers and 90,000 Sector in Scotland: 2013 – A Report to coaches support delivery of sport Scottish Student Sport (SSS). Figures cover in Scotland.4 universities that provided data. 3 This includes spend through sportscotland’s Sports Facilities Fund, National and Regional Sports Facilities Fund and the Active Places 4 Figures provided by the Scottish Sports Fund. Association. 11

sportscotland works with Local There are a variety of programmes Authorities, Leisure Trusts, clubs and specifically designed to support the third sector to ensure there are children and young people whose appropriate training opportunities. needs may make accessing mainstream These include Positive Coaching provision less possible or enjoyable for Scotland and Clubs Leaders. them including Street Soccer, Jump2it and Active East. In addition to this, sportscotland funds up to 50 per cent of the level 1 and 2 The CashBack programme has UK Coaching Certificates, and up to 75 invested £24 million on sporting per cent for level 3. There are a wide activities and facilities projects range of local and national funds that since 2007, and contributed to can support people to fund the balance. the overall programme funding of 1.1 million activities and The Commonwealth Games offer a opportunities for young people. significant opportunity for volunteering in sport but the This is just a small selection of the opportunities do not end there. The current provision of sport for children ‘Beyond the Games’ website has been and young people in Scotland, and developed by Skills Development details on where further information can Scotland to keep interested people be found is set out on page 12. informed about the Games and other volunteering opportunities. Our challenge is to build on this solid http://www.myworldofwork.co.uk/ framework to ensure that Scotland is beyond-the-games a great environment for children and young people to embark on lifelong There are also specific opportunities participation in sport. This document for children and young people to aims to provide the starting point for lead through programmes such as that to happen. Youth Legacy Ambassadors, Young Ambassadors and Lead 2014, which involve over 1,000 young people across the whole of Scotland.

We recognise the need to ensure that sport is accessible for all, with Local Authorities and the third sector playing a key role in this regard. 12

Further information on the activities of Local Authorities, sportscotland and Scottish Governing Bodies of Sport can be found as follows:

• Individual Local Authority websites provide details of provision at local level. http://www.sportscotland.org.uk/ • The sportscotland website provides further information about its activities and information for those who are looking to volunteer in sport. http://www.thessa.org.uk/ • The website of the Scottish Sports Association, which represents Scottish Governing Bodies of Sport, contains details of its activities and to individual Governing Body websites. http://www.legacy2014.co.uk/ • This website sets out plans to ensure that all of Scotland benefits from the Games, and how to get involved. http://www.volunteerscotland.net • The Volunteer Scotland website allows people to search for opportunities by location and keyword, such as sport. http://www.gamechangerawards.org/ • These awards celebrate the contributions of staff and students in the further and higher education sectors to ensure that 2014 is a fantastic success and will deliver an enduring legacy.

Where children and young people want The consultation work which has us to be been done with children and young people by Young Scot, the Children’s The draft strategy started by setting Parliament and the Commissioner, out what the Young People’s Sport builds on those original needs and has Panel said was important to them: given us some really rich information a focus not on projects, initiatives about what children and young people and one-offs – but sustained vibrant want; information that has helped services and opportunities that offer shape this final strategy. them choices that are relevant to their needs as they grow up. The information was gathered from a number of sources including They told us “give us great surveys, workshops, focus groups and opportunities, supported by great completed activity sheets. It came from people, delivered in great places and a range of ages, both those who play help us to give what we do a higher sport and those who don’t, and from profile”. those in underrepresented groups. 13

The reports submitted to us by each of these organisations have been published on the Scottish Government website. Further reports by the Children’s Parliament and the Commissioner can be found on their own websites. This strategy should be like Collectively they provide us with some a tree with long roots, many great food for thought. Some of their branches and a long life.” key messages were: Young People’s Sport Panel Member • A wide range of activities are currently undertaken, both formal and informal, in a wide range of venues. Playing sports is like having • Key associations with sport include friendship, learning, fun, being fit a common language. You and being healthy. speak with your feet and your • Children and young people want body. Sport can bring people to be offered a wide range of together.” different sporting opportunities and Children’s Parliament consultation the chance to try new or different sports. They also want to have a wide range of different venues and to have improvements made to current facilities. • Barriers to taking up opportunities include time, lack of , travel distance, disability, location, cost and lack of volunteers/coaches. • Parents and teachers play a key role in introducing children and young people to sporting opportunities, as do youth workers and community organisations. • Children and young people are keen for higher profile to be given to sporting activities, and their successes and achievements including through advertising, leaflets, information in venues, social media and hearing from role models. 14

3. Vision, principles and outcomes

Our vision for this strategy is that range of skills that they need in order “Scotland is a great environment for to be successful learners, confident children and young people to embark individuals, responsible citizens and on lifelong participation in sport”. effective contributors, both now and in the future. Hosting the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup in 2014 gives Scotland the All of these factors are key to ensuring opportunity to inspire and motivate our children’s broader wellbeing, children and young people – and meaning they are safe, healthy, active, attract a new generation of sporting nurtured, respected, responsible, participants including those with included and can achieve – the eight disabilities and those who are currently indicators which define wellbeing disengaged from sport. in the Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014. We recognise that sport is part of a spectrum of physical activity Promoting, supporting and encompassing active living (e.g. DIY safeguarding wellbeing is at the heart and gardening), travel (walking and of the GIRFEC approach and will be a cycling), recreation (exercise and key aim of children’s services planning dance) and informal and formal sport. at the local level, as a result of the new legal requirements being introduced However, we believe there is a through the 2014 Act. particular role for sport, both formal and informal, in helping people, and The strategy builds on the foundations especially children and young people, provided by Reaching Higher, our sport to lead active and healthier lives – and strategy. It aims to complement and to have fun. contribute to the agenda set out in A More Active Scotland, Scotland’s first Importantly, we also recognise children Physical Activity Implementation Plan and young people’s participation in as well as for Excellence, sport as an expression of their rights. GIRFEC, the Early Years Framework, the Through the Commonwealth Games Play Strategy for Scotland, we have established a partnership Youth Work Strategy and the National with UNICEF which will promote Parenting Strategy. the positive role that sport can play in promoting those rights, both in Working towards the vision will Scotland and around the globe. contribute to the purpose of the Scottish Government and a number of By creating opportunities for young the National Outcomes which underpin people to participate in sport, we are it, including: supporting their right to participate in • We live longer, healthier lives. recreational activities; to be healthy; • Our children have the best start in to build relationships and associate life and are ready to succeed. themselves with like-minded people and organisations; and to learn the 15

SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT PURPOSE: To focus Government and public services on creating a more successful , with opportunities for all of Scotland to f lourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth. 16

Principles

We know that this document is only However, we recognise the need to part of a process. Delivering its build a strong platform to ensure we vision will require consistent and can engage directly with children and sustained effort by many people and young people. We will continue to work organisations, building on the valuable with the Young People’s Sport Panel, work that already takes place. Young Scot, the Children’s Parliament, the Commissioner and others on how However, a number of principles that can best be achieved. emerged during the consultation which we believe will help us get there. The Young People’s Sport Panel will also develop a version of this document 1) Hearing the views of children and for children and young people. young people

The response to our consultation has given the message loud and clear that Outdoor Life the voices of children and young people Ramblers Scotland has developed must be heard in decision-making. the Outdoor Life project in partnership with High This is consistent with the right of a School to embed walking within child to be heard under Article 12 of the curriculum. the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. This has involved engaging young people, who are turned The work done by Young Scot, off traditional sports, in physical the Children’s Parliament and the activity through running a walking Commissioner has given us a snapshot programme during PE sessions. of views, set out in detail in the reports published alongside this strategy. This has enabled these young people to take part in physical [Children] liked the idea of activity, get to know the local area adults talking to them about better and develop social skills through the activity. Ramblers their experiences, opportunities Scotland have linked in local and aspirations. Indeed, Ramblers groups, who have children were very positive mapped the routes for the children about this consultation seeking to follow. out their views. This project is best demonstrated Analysis of consultation responses through the video that has been produced, letting the children explain Equally, there are a number of existing it themselves. This can be accessed channels through which the views of at: http://www.ramblers.org.uk/ children and young people are heard scotland/what-we-do/promoting- including the Young People’s Sport Panel. walking/outdoor-life.aspx 17

2) Collaboration is crucial As just one example, Education Scotland and sportscotland have been The response to our consultation working together, and with Local highlighted that the draft strategy did Authorities, around the delivery of the not fully recognise the role of a variety PE target and improving the quality of organisations in delivering sport for of the learning experience in PE. This children and young people, notably the has led to closer working between crucial role played by Local Authorities, Active Schools and PE staff at local and the third sector. It also highlighted level, leading to an integrated approach the need for effective collaboration to PE, physical activity and sport, between all involved in the delivery of improving pathways to participation sport for children and young people. in sport and physical activity. We know that PE in schools is making a The Scottish Government recognises difference to children’s activity levels that positive outcomes for the people in Scotland. of Scotland will be best delivered by working with people – drawing on the Collaborative work is also being talents and abilities of our communities undertaken by the Scottish – rather than doing things to them. Government, sportscotland, COSLA and relevant Councillors to investigate To deliver positive change and issues relating to travel costs improvement we must collectively for athletes in remote and island draw on available research, new communities. ideas, and share learning about the impact of activity, even where success The National Strategic Group for Sport isn’t clear. and Physical Activity provides a forum to build on current collaboration, There is a good deal of collaboration bringing key delivery partners together already including between the Scottish to deliver a shared strategic approach Government, sportscotland, Education to sport and physical activity. Scotland, Local Authorities, Scottish Governing Bodies of Sport, and the third sector on a wide range of issues. 18

Family Splash the pool to encourage play. Staff are Community consultation within the on hand to help support the local community ward of and show them how to play with their in highlighted a strong children in the pool. message that residents would like Public times the opportunity to take their All Family Splash families can swimming and access more affordable access any public swimming session leisure and play activities together throughout the school holidays or with their child. Family Splash was term-time for £1 for the entire family. born and created as a test of change within the Early Years Collaborative Early Years swimming lessons Improvement Methodology. All Family Splash families can access early years swimming lessons for £1 Family Splash is targeted specifically with parents accompanying their child at families with a young child living in the water for the lesson. in the Lochee ward of Dundee who have an identified health or social Partnership working has been key to need. Families are referred by partner the success of the programme with agencies into the Family Splash partners identifying, referring and programme. supporting families to participate and delivering fun parenting sessions All aspects of the programme after the swim, such as healthy eating, encourage parents and children to play dental care and family literacy. and connect together to encourage attachment in a fun environment. Further details of the project, including a short video, are available at: The programme has three defined http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/ areas: earlyyearsmatters/f/genericcontent_ tcm4829142.asp Family Splash fun sessions The sessions cost £1 for the entire family. Swimming costumes, nappies, goggles and towels are provided free, with a range of fun, colourful toys in 19

3) There must be a focus on reaching Reaching children and young people children and young people who are who are disengaged is already a focus disengaged for many organisations and there are a range of specific programmes which The response to our consultation address this such as Street Soccer, highlighted a strong consensus that Jump2it and Active East. there must be a focus on reaching children and young people who are not In addition to this, the Scottish currently engaged in sport. Government and Sport Relief have jointly announced a £1.5 million It also suggested that there are programme which will focus on opportunities to use sport to make using sport as a tool to help improve a difference to the lives of children health and wellbeing and deliver and young people beyond the direct positive social change. This will be benefits in relation to health. delivered during the second phase of the Legacy 2014 Scottish Sport Relief We recognise that a narrow Home and Away Programme, part understanding of ‘sport’ doesn’t help of the Government’s commitment to reach those currently disengaged secure a lasting legacy from the 2014 and it is not one we subscribe Commonwealth Games, both at ‘Home’ to. We think of sport, formal and in Scotland and ‘Away’ in other parts of informal, as encompassing a range of the Commonwealth. activities – from cycling to , swimming to playing in the We must build on this activity, park, orienteering to skateboarding. developing our shared understanding We know the wider the range of of the barriers faced by those who are opportunities, the more likely those currently disengaged and how we can currently disengaged will find work together to reach everyone. something that appeals.

The types of things we need to do to reach those who are currently disengaged are likely to be different to the things we do to sustain and deepen participation. Striking the balance between opportunities that are fun, welcoming and sociable, and those that enable progression and competition, is key. 20

Street Soccer Scotland is a non- 2014 Sporting Chances was a joint profit that project between Glasgow Sport and delivers a range of football-related Social Work services to socially disadvantaged Department. This four week sports adults and young people across programme aimed to provide young Scotland. The case study below people looked after by Social Work sets out just one example of how with the opportunity to take part in its services have helped a young sport at the Emirates Arena. person (whose name has been changed). Young People were given the opportunity to take part in a tour Zoe was a pupil at secondary and induction of the Emirates Arena. school. She was living in a secured From this, a sports programme was care accommodation after the put in place to include , breakdown in her relationship and basketball. with her family, and started getting into trouble at school and Over four weeks, groups of young outside school. Whilst at school, people had the opportunity to take she found out about Street Soccer part in these sports in a fun and Scotland which allowed her to gain structured environment. Working with education using football-related small groups meant that quality time learning. At first, it was difficult was spent with young people, ensuring to engage with Zoe but she soon they felt valued. started to open up and engage in what the Street Soccer staff where Glasgow Sport Modern Apprentices delivering and teaching. supported the programme throughout to assist with coaching, registration Zoe was so motivated by the and being a positive role model to the course that she asked to visit the young people involved. local college and find out about future education after school. She A feedback survey was given to both now attends College four times a partners and participants with 100 per week and volunteers with Street cent of participants surveyed indicating Soccer on a Wednesday at a that they had enjoyed the programme. session for players with supported One partnership organisation noted learning. Further details of Street that “It has given our young people Soccer Scotland’s programmes an opportunity to try sports that they are available at: http://www. perhaps wouldn’t have done on their streetsoccerscotland.org/ own.” 21

4) Sport for children and young people Positive Coaching Scotland must be fun Positive Coaching Scotland (PCS) Our consultation with children and is delivered by sportscotland in young people highlighted that sport partnership with Winning Scotland must be fun and that they want to Foundation and local and national learn from coaches who are strict but partners. also fun and challenging. The programme is about creating a Children and young people positive environment in youth sport want to learn from older young – one which focuses on encouraging effort and learning, improving people. They also want coaches performance and fostering competition. who are strict but fair, who don’t shout and who have fun This focus helps young people to themselves. They also said it understand the importance of effort is important that parents and rather than winning at all costs. other adults support children The programme involves key influencers and young people who want to in a young person’s life – coaches, take part in sports. teachers, parents and club leaders. Analysis of consultation responses sportscotland’s website provides While this will already be a strong information for each of these focus for those involved in delivery influencers as well as videos from of sport, our consultation response athletes and coaches across the highlights the importance of ensuring country about their thoughts on it is central to the delivery of sport for Positive Coaching Scotland and the children and young people. principles: http://www.sportscotland.org.uk/about_ Participation is crucially dependent on us/what_we_do/people/coaching/ the individuals who deliver sport, and our_programmes/positive_coaching_ in particular, volunteers. It is important scotland/ also that appropriate training is available to meet identified needs and demand and, in particular, that there are clear pathways for children and young people to develop as leaders. 22

Outcomes

In the draft of this strategy published in December 2013 we set out four asks identified by the Young People’s Sport Panel: great opportunities, great people, great places and higher profile. The response to our consultation confirmed that these are important and provided further information on what children and young people, and those involved in the delivery of sport, think is important. We have used the consultation response to outline a number of outcomes under each of the four asks.

Great Opportunities

Providing opportunities for children and young people to participate in sport by: • learning and developing • having fun • taking part in events and competitions • leading • celebrating and watching

Children and young people will have opportunities to participate in sport in their early years, at school, in clubs and groups and informally with their friends and family.

Outcomes • Children and young people have access to a wide range of sports, formal and informal, at a range of different times. • Children and young people have a strong voice in how, when and where sport is delivered. • Sport for children and young people is accessible, equitable and inclusive – as well as being fun. • There are pathways for progression through sport. • Sport forms an important part of the school curriculum. • Children and young people have opportunities to take up leadership roles. 23

Great People

Developing and supporting leaders and workers who are: • capable and confident • recognised and valued

Children and young people will be supported by a range of people who are competent at the level they need, who can keep them safe, whilst working on the right kind of activities and in the right places.

Outcomes • Parents and carers understand the value of sport and encourage and support participation. • Those who work with children and young people are valued and supported to develop the skills needed to work effectively with children and young people, including working with those who face particular barriers or challenges. • There is greater awareness of opportunities to volunteer in sport for children and young people and support to enable volunteers to do so. 24

Great Places

Providing great places to be active through sports which are: • accessible • affordable • welcoming

Children and young people will have a more accessible network of places where they can take part in sport and physical activity and those places will better meet their needs and expectations.

Outcomes • Facilities are welcoming for children and young people, and meet the needs of a wide range of different users including those with disabilities and hard-to-reach groups. • A wide range of venues are available for use including the community and school estate and outdoor spaces, and there is increased awareness of what is available. • Children and young people are involved in the design and operation of facilities. 25

Higher Profile

Celebrating and communicating opportunities to take part in sport and the talents and successes of children and young people: • achievements at local, national and international level • inspirational young coaches and leaders • events for young people in the community

Ensuring that the talents and success of all children and young people in sport are celebrated and communicated.

Outcomes • There is better awareness of sporting opportunities. • The achievements of children and young people in sport are celebrated – and not only in relation to success in competition. • A wide range of information channels are used, with schools and local authorities playing a role in providing information. 26

4. Next steps

The response to our consultation gave us the message loud and clear that children and young people’s views need to be at the heart of delivery of sport, and that there must be effective collaboration by those involved in delivery. The Scottish Government recognises that positive outcomes for the people of Scotland will be best delivered by working with people rather than doing things to them. Improving on current delivery will require consistent shared endeavour by many organisations and individuals – developing and sharing knowledge on current provision, what works, and what more can be done.

The themes and outcomes above reflect the views set out in the response to our consultation and we propose that they guide the actions that we collectively take to deliver sport for children and young people in Scotland over the next 10 years. We have set out in the annex some actions which will start us on that journey but they represent just part of the wider collaborative effort which must take place. The annex reflects actions already being taken forward through other strategies or plans, ensuring that we collectively ensure the best possible outcomes.

The National Strategic Group on Sport and Physical Activity chaired by the Cabinet Secretary for the Commonwealth Games, Sport, Equalities and Pensioners’ Rights will monitor the ongoing delivery of this strategy. 27

5. Annex – Actions 28

Action Theme Strategy/Plan Who

Support continued delivery of at least two Great Sporting Chance Education Scotland hours of physical education in primary Opportunities sportscotland schools and at least two periods of PE in Schools secondary schools for pupils in S1-S4 and Local Authorities the development of high-quality learning Scottish Government experiences in PE, with continued investment of £5.8 million over 2014-15 to 2015-16 through Education Scotland and sportscotland.

Continue to work together to deliver high- Great Sporting Chance sportscotland quality learning experiences through the Opportunities Education Scotland PEPAS and Community Sport agendas – Scottish Government ensuring that there are effective pathways Local Authorities between the school setting and community Active Schools sport. Coordinators Scottish Governing Bodies of Sports Clubs PE Teachers Sport Development Officers

Work together to better reach disengaged Great Sporting Chance sportscotland and at-risk children and young people, Opportunities Local Authorities helping to achieving positive outcomes and third sector, including the social change. Robertson Trust

Share the lessons from pilot work Great Sporting Chance sportscotland undertaken by sportscotland in relation to Opportunities Local Authorities and the delivery of intra and inter school sport Leisure Trusts competition with eight Local Authorities, and across and .

Work together to ensure there are clear Great Sporting Chance sportscotland pathways for children and young people Opportunities Local Authorities to develop as leaders from the primary VOCAL – Voice of Culture setting through to secondary and onto and Leisure Managers Higher Education/Further Education and the Further and Higher community. As part of this, sportscotland, Education institutions Local Authorities and Leisure Trusts, clubs and Community Sport Hubs the third sector will work together to develop Clubs and support stronger youth involvement in Community Sport Hubs.

Major sporting events will be part of Great Sporting Chance Scottish Governing Bodies overall plans for sport and for the city/ Opportunities of Sport area, ensuring that opportunities to develop Event Organisers the sport are maximised. Events will be Local Authorities used to inspire and create a platform for sportscotland future engagement of participants, coaches, EventScotland officials and volunteers. 29

A More Active Scotland, Scotland’s Physical Great A More Active See A More Active Activity Implementation Plan sets out a Opportunities Scotland Scotland for further detail range of commitments which will help to on these commitments. deliver better opportunities for children and young people.

Play Strategy for Scotland: Our Action Great Play Strategy See Play Strategy for Plan sets out a range of practical steps Opportunities for Scotland: Scotland: Our Action Plan to support play in the home, nursery and Our Action Plan for further details. school, the community, and in relation to positive support for play through the professional workforce, third sector and the media. sportscotland will continue to support Great People Sporting Chance Delivery is underway Local Authorities, Trusts, clubs and the and ongoing – by third sector with appropriate training sportscotland supported opportunities such as Positive Coaching by Local Authorities, Scotland, Clubs Leaders and will develop Leisure Trusts, clubs, and further training in response to identified third sector organisations. needs and demand.

All equality characteristics should be Great People Sporting Chance All involved in the adopted and incorporated into relevant delivery of sport for continuing professional development children and young people. for those working with children and Scottish Disability Sport young people in sport. As part of this approach the sport inclusion model from Scottish Disability Sport should be widely adopted and incorporated into continuing professional development.

More volunteers and coaches will be Great People A More Active Detailed delivery plan involved in getting people active. Scotland will be developed by dedicated Programme Board to achieve delivery by the end of 2014.

The coach and volunteer workforce will Great People A More Active Detailed delivery plan have the knowledge and skills to promote Scotland will be developed by increased physical activity. dedicated Programme Board to achieve delivery within five years of the .

We want to raise the profile of the people Great People Sporting Chance Scottish Government who make sport happen and will look at Education Scotland ways for our young people to connect via sportscotland social media to say a simple thank you to their volunteers. 30

Action Theme Strategy/Plan Who

Education staff have the appropriate Great People A More Active Detailed delivery plan knowledge and skills to promote increased Scotland will be developed by physical activity. dedicated Programme Board to achieve delivery within 5 years of the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Task a working group to review current Great People Play Strategy Delivery will be in levels of play training provided to school for Scotland: the medium term and nursery staff and to recommend Our Action Plan (approximately 1-3 how elements of play rights, theory and years) – by the Scottish practice could be incorporated in both the Government, Play initial professional training and career-long Scotland, partners (e.g. professional learning and leadership. Scottish Qualifications Authority, Scottish Social Services Council, Further and Higher Education institutions and the National Implementation Group for Outdoor Learning.

Those involved in the delivery of sport Great Places Sporting Chance All involved in the should aim to reach children and young delivery of sport for people within their own community children and young people. setting at a venues that create a conducive environment for children and young people to take part in sport, including through Community Sport Hubs. sportscotland will work with local partners Great Places Sporting Chance sportscotland to sustain and improve the existing school- Local Authorities based hubs and to grow more, with an Community Sport Hubs aim of reaching a position where every Clubs which wishes to can either have access to or be a Community Sport Hub. sportscotland will have earlier and Great Places Sporting Chance sportscotland ongoing involvement in the design of new Scottish Futures Trust schools to be delivered within the Scottish Local Authorities Government school building programme, Scotland’s Schools for the Future.

Develop and share best practice in relation Great Places Sporting Chance sportscotland to availability of the school estate and Local Authorities programming of community sport activity in schools, drawing on sportscotland research on the school estate. 31

Consider how the Young Scot Card can Great Places Sporting Chance Young Scot be fully exploited to improve access and sportscotland participation, simplify prices for young Local Authorities people and ensure affordability.

All places of learning can demonstrate the Great Places A More Active Detailed delivery plan will use of their estate and space for Scotland be developed by dedicated physical activity. Programme Board to achieve delivery within five years of the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Audit current levels of community access Great Places Play Strategy Delivery will be in to school grounds (including the wider for Scotland: the medium term school environment of streets and routes to Our Action Plan (approximately 1-3 school) and identify key influencing factors. years) – by the Scottish Consider options for increasing community Government, Local access to school playgrounds out of school Authority Asset Managers, hours. Put forward recommendations Grounds for Learning, for piloting, evaluating and sharing good Planning Aid for Scotland, practice. Scottish Out Of School Network, Living Streets and other partners.

The Young People’s Sport Panel will develop Higher Profile Sporting Chance Young People’s Sport proposals on how the involvement of Panel children and young people in sport can be sportscotland given a higher profile.

All organisations engaged in the delivery Higher Profile Sporting Chance All involved in the of sport will develop a more proactive delivery of sport for approach to promoting the successes and children and young people. achievements of children and young people. 32

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First published by the Scottish Government, June 2014 ISBN: 978-1-78412-506-6 (web only) eBook first published by the Scottish Government, June 2014 ISBN: 978-1-78412-507-3 (ePub)

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Published by the Scottish Government, June 2014

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