Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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549. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the way in which school sport will resume in the 2020-21 school year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19134/20]

Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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550. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the preparations that have taken place to re-establish school sport; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19135/20]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 549 and 550 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, Physical Education (PE) and sport more generally support the development of skills and attributes such as physical movement and development, communication, self-esteem and confidence, all of which are particularly important as pupils return to school.

Pupils will have had varying opportunities for movement and physical activity over the past months. As set out in the Return to School guidance published by my Department, as the new school year gets underway, movement and activity through timetabled PE lessons, along with activity throughout the day, will contribute positively to pupils’ wellbeing; and as such PE should form a significant component of timetabled programmes upon returning to school. The use of ‘pods’, the need for physical distancing, the cleaning and organisation of equipment, and the individual school environment will shape the PE learning experiences in the new school year.

Opportunities for both indoor and outdoor activity should be exploited during break-times, transitions, play, PE lessons, and across curricular areas. Useful resources to support this include Move Well Move Often (PDST) and the Active School Flag resources. During PE lessons, teachers are encouraged continue to ensure all learners engage in aerobic activities as well as skills development, with an emphasis on fundamental movement skills.

With regards to school sports teams and school involvement in sporting competitions, the decisions taken to become involved in organised school sports should be made at school level and be informed by the most up to date public health advice provided by the National Public Health Emergency Team.