UWTSD Promotes Inclusive Physical Literacy at Sport Northern Ireland Workshop

20 February 2025

Dr Nalda Wainwright, Associate Professor and Director from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) Wales Academy for Health and Physical Literacy, travelled to Belfast recently to deliver a workshop for Sport Northern Ireland. The workshop, titled Supporting Belonging and Inclusion Through Physical Literacy Informed Practice provided an exploration of strategies to enhance children’s physical development through play-based and inclusive approaches.

An image of Nalda giving her presenatation

During the workshop, Dr Wainwright shared approaches for analysing movement and discussed how to create supportive environments that foster physical literacy. She highlighted the importance of creating inclusive environments where every child, regardless of ability, can participate and thrive. A key feature of her presentation was the discussion of SKIP-Cymru in Wales, a programme of professional development designed to improve children’s health and well-being. Dr Wainwright explored how this programme has positively impacted cross-sector collaboration, demonstrating how schools and communities can work together to promote a holistic approach to physical literacy.

This workshop marked a significant step towards enhancing physical literacy across the UK and Ireland, ensuring that all children, regardless of background or ability, have the opportunity to thrive through physical activity.

Nalda demonstrating a MiniMovers exercise

Attended by a diverse audience, including coaches, national governing bodies of sport representatives, local council officials, and health trust professionals, the workshop facilitated rich discussions on embedding physical literacy into practice. Dr. Wainwright’s expertise and insights provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, inspiring attendees to enhance inclusivity and health-focused education in their respective fields.

Dr Wainwright said:

“It was great to have the opportunity to work with such an amazing group of people from sport and health in Northern Ireland and to see colleagues from Sport Ireland. We had great discussions about the development of physical literacy and the key role of early childhood for laying foundational skills to ensure that young people are able to be included and feel a sense of belonging in sporting and physical activity environments.”