Movement Across the Whole School Day: How B.C. Schools Are Embedding Physical Literacy into Learning • Sport for Life

A growing number of B.C. schools are proving that movement is the key to unlocking student focus and engagement. In Sport for Life’s Movement Across the Whole School Day initiative, 95% of educators report improvements in focus, engagement, and behaviour after building physical activity into every part of the school day.

The initiative helps schools embed physical literacy and Physically Active Learning (PAL) into daily routines, developing students’ skills, confidence, and motivation to be active for life. It works in any learning environment, and the results last.

More Than Just Gym Class

With most K–7 Physical and Health Education (PHE) taught by generalist teachers, the program uses a train-the-trainer approach to build capacity across entire schools. Educators receive support through either in-class mentorship or a combination of active workshops and eLearning, both with access to PLAYBuilder—an online library of 1,400+ activities, 250+ lesson plans, and term planners.

For schools choosing in-class mentorship, professional development happens during the school day, with teachers applying strategies in their own classrooms and receiving real-time feedback. This hands-on approach shows how movement can fit in the gym, on the playground, or between desks.

Two Ways to Bring This Model Into Your School

A) In-Class Mentorship (1:1 Support)

Build Educator Capacity – Teachers receive embedded professional development through in-class coaching, modeling, and collaboration.
Integrate Fundamental Movement Skills – Skills like running, jumping, throwing, and balancing are woven into lessons, supported by PLAYbasic assessments and PLAYBuilder resources.
Create Movement in Diverse Environments – Activities are delivered in the gym, classroom, or outdoors, including traditional Indigenous games.
Use PAL Strategies – Combine academic content with movement to increase activity levels and engagement.

B) Group Learning (Workshops + eLearning)

Workshops – Interactive, facilitator-led sessions that provide hands-on strategies for active learning.
eLearning – Self-paced courses that build knowledge and confidence in embedding movement across the day.
PLAYBuilder Access – Ongoing access to 1,400+ activities, 250+ lesson plans, and planning tools that support long-term change.

Why Movement Matters

A 2023 Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport meta-analysis found that even one bout of physical activity can improve working memory, attention, and executive function in children and adolescents. Other benefits include reduced anxiety, better attendance, stronger resilience, and improved self-esteem.

“I’ve noticed a real increase in student engagement… The kids recall key concepts, check in with their mood before and after activity, and recognize the skills they’re working on.” — Chief Tomat Elementary Educator, SD 23

The Results

95% observed improved focus, engagement, or behaviour.
58% increased total daily movement (excluding recess and lunch).
49% added more physical activity to other subjects.
56% used more in-class movement breaks.

Since its launch, the initiative has supported 2,700+ educators in 400+ schools, benefiting an estimated 30,000+ students.

Learning in Motion

From the gym floor to the math classroom, movement is building healthier bodies, sharper minds, and more confident learners. Schools embracing this approach are showing that movement isn’t a break from education—it’s an essential part of it.

Bring Movement to Your School
If you’re ready to integrate movement across the whole day and see the impact for yourself, contact Sport for Life to learn how your school or district can join the initiative. Access training, resources, and mentorship that make it simple to embed physical literacy into every learning environment.