Bradford academics lead WHO report to transform physical activity in schools across Europe

The report, Whole-of-school approach to the promotion of physical activity, was co-authored by academics from the University's Wolfson Centre for Applied Research and Faculty of Health Studies. It sets out seven key recommendations for governments to embed physical activity into every aspect of school life, from curriculum design to community engagement.

Led by Dr Andy Daly-Smith, Dr Anna Chalkley and Jade Morris, the Bradford team worked with WHO experts and stakeholders from 34 countries to understand how national systems can better support schools to promote movement and wellbeing.

Healthy habits

The report highlights the urgent need for cross-government leadership, better teacher training, and funding clarity to ensure schools can become hubs for lifelong healthy habits. It also warns that most countries are not on track to meet WHO's target of reducing physical inactivity by 15% by 2030.

This builds on previous work by the University of Bradford, including research showing how schools can play a pivotal role in addressing long-term health inequalities.

The WHO report is available onlineand will inform future toolkits and training programmes for schools and policymakers.