Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 April 2012
405 Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide a list of schools that have been awarded an active school flag; if he will provide a list of schools that have submitted applications for an active school flag; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19467/12]
View answer406 Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide a list of schools that have been awarded an Active School Flag; if he will provide a list of schools who have submitted applications for an Active School Flag; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19472/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 405 and 406 together.
Recognising the contribution of physical activity to the health and well-being of children and to increase the physical activity levels of school children, in 2009 the Department of Education and Skills launched the Active School Flag (ASF) to motivate and reward schools which strive to achieve a physically active and physically educated school community. The ASF aims to complement the existing PE curriculum in schools.Since 2009, 875 primary schools, 125 post-primary schools and 4 Youthreach Centres have registered for participation in the programme. Some 110 schools have been awarded their flags in 2010 and 2011. It is expected that another 200 schools will have been awarded an ASF by the end of this current year. A full list of schools which have been awarded an active flag is available on the active school flag website (www.activeschoolflag.ie and click the ASF locations button). The list of schools which have applied to participate in the programme this year is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy. The high level of participation by schools in the programme is indicative of the desire of teachers and schools to ensure that children are as active as possible. Active, enjoyable engagement in physical activity at a young age plays an important part in the development of habits that will contribute to good health and well-being in the long-term.
