New Research Shows Children in SKIP-Cymru Schools Make Double the Progress
A major new study from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David has revealed powerful evidence of SKIP-Cymru’s impact: children aged 4–7 in SKIP-Cymru schools are showing double the level of motor skills compared with children in non-SKIP schools.
Published in the Journal of Motor Learning and Development, the research highlights something rare in education: almost three years after training, teachers are still using SKIP-Cymru techniques in their daily practice. While many initiatives fade over time, SKIP-Cymru has stuck, reshaping classrooms, improving focus and confidence, and helping children move better and learn better.
Previous studies found that before staff completed the training, only 12% of preschool children were meeting age-appropriate motor milestones. After SKIP-Cymru was introduced, that figure soared to 67%, clear evidence of the power of early intervention.
This lasting change demonstrates just how transformative the programme is and how much it’s improving children’s lives across Wales.
Associate Professor Dr Nalda Wainwright said:
“At a time when we are hearing more and more about children struggling with both physical and mental health, the findings of this study are really good news. It shows that training staff with SKIP-Cymru has a significant impact on the children in their schools.”
Movement matters. It shapes how children think, communicate, and connect. Current research warns that too many children are missing out on essential motor skills, putting them at greater risk of learning, social and health challenges later in life.
SKIP Cymru, a nationally recognised qualification, equips teachers and early years staff with the skills to nurture children’s movement, confidence and overall development.
Swansea Local Authority, which funded schools and preschools within the area to access SKIP Cymru training, welcomed the findings.
Cllr Hayley Gwilliam said:
“We are passionate in Swansea about giving every child the Best Start in Life… It is a vital skill in order to be the best that they can be.
“We were fortunate to work in partnership with UWTSD and Dr Nalda Wainwright and her team to adopt a whole school approach to the SKIP Cymru programme at St Thomas Community Primary School. We are delighted that the publication of Nalda’s research backs up this approach and highlights the benefits of working together to support children’s developmental needs from the earliest ages. The fact that the teachers have been able to support children with improving their movement development outcomes is really fantastic for the children within the community and demonstrates our commitment to supporting all children in Swansea to be the best that they can be!”
The findings underline a crucial message: investing in high-quality teacher training now can change children’s futures.
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
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