A Plymouth school has been shortlisted for a major national award after transforming its physical education provision and improving students’ confidence, wellbeing and engagement.

 Marine Academy Plymouth has been named a finalist in the Youth Sport Trust Awards, which recognise schools making an exceptional difference to young people through sport and physical activity. Winners will be announced at a national awards ceremony in March.

The recognition follows a major overhaul of the school’s PE programme over the past year, shaped by pupil feedback and supported through work with the Youth Sport Trust. Staff focused on removing barriers to participation and helping every young person develop a positive relationship with movement and physical activity.

Changes included introducing a new concept-driven curriculum centred on physical literacy, widening the range of activities on offer, and allowing students to attend school in PE kit to reduce anxiety around changing facilities. Extra indoor spaces were also opened during lessons so students could take part in environments where they felt comfortable.

Targeted support groups were created for students experiencing disadvantage, alongside specialist programmes designed to rebuild confidence and improve behaviour through movement. Changes to the curriculum have given students more opportunities to be active during the school week.

The impact has been striking with the school seeing improved behaviour, attendance and engagement. Staff report better participation and higher levels of enjoyment in teaching, while students say they feel happier, more supported and more willing to take part in sport.

Academic outcomes in PE have also improved, with the school achieving the strongest GCSE results for the subject across the Ted Wragg Trust.

Marine Academy Plymouth’s work with the Youth Sport Trust has included specialist training for staff and sharing its approach with schools across the country, helping to highlight how physical education can play a central role in wider school improvement.

Jennifer Brimming, Principal of Marine Academy Plymouth, said: 

“We are extremely proud to be selected as a finalist in the national Youth Sport Trust Awards. Our staff have worked hard to listen to students and shape our programme, and it’s been wonderful to see the impact this has had on confidence, behaviour and enjoyment of PE. Sport can play a powerful role in young people’s lives, and this recognition reflects the commitment of our whole school community.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust, said:

“This nomination highlights how thoughtful, inclusive approaches to physical education can make a real difference to students lives. Marine Academy Plymouth has shown how listening to students and investing in staff development can help transform experiences at school and open up opportunities for the future. We are delighted to see their work recognised on a national stage.”