School sports given huge boost to 'level the playing field' following Lionesses' triumphant Euro victory

Sports in schools is to be given a 'huge boost' to 'level the playing field' for boys and girls. The new standard for PE will see both girls and boys offered the same sports in hope of inspiring the 'next generation of Lionesses'.

A minimum of two hours of quality Physical Education (PE) per week is to be offered through the refreshed School Sport Action Plan, along with a multi-million investment in school sport and after school activities.

The Government will be setting out the new standards on International Women’s Day in order to offer girls and boys the chance to be involved with the same sports during PE and extracurricular time in schools across the country.

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It is hoped the new package will help to boost equal opportunities in school sport both inside and outside the classroom, delivering on promises made by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Education Secretary Gillian Keegan to the Women’s Euro 22 winners the Lionesses.

The news follows on from the success of the Football Association’s (FA) #LetGirlsPlay campaign which is working to change perceptions and make sure girls get the chance to play football within the school curriculum. The campaign was launched by the Lionesses squad and the FA after the England Women’s team’s success at the Euro 22 tournament last year.

Following the announcement, Leah Williamson, the England Women's captain said the success of the summer has 'inspired so many young girls to pursue their passion for football'.

Health and Social Care Secretary Steve Barclay said: “Funding PE in schools can help inspire the next generation to build on the international sporting successes of the Lionesses at the Euros, the Red