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Physical Activity Leaders (PAL)web active schools pals

PAL is a programme which gives senior students responsibility and an opportunity to be seen in a leadership role.  At the same time the programme helps to encourage students’ participation in sport and physical activity and contributes to their 60 minutes of physical activity a day.

The PAL programme is an adaptable programme which should be designed to suit the needs of the students.

Being a PAL gives the students within the school a sense of pride and satisfaction and a chance to develop a role model status.

Some noticed benefits of running PAL include:

  • Students develop personal leadership skills
  • Students have an opportunity to accept more responsibility, appreciation, and respect from teachers and students
  • Students gain a sense of satisfaction for helping the enjoyment of others while working towards a happier, healthier, more physically active life!
  • Provides a great teaching and learning opportunity in leadership, sportsmanship and teamwork.

Example of PAL in action within schools:

  • PAL running lunchtime games and activities
  • PAL responsible for and involved in the planning of school community sports and recreation events
  • PAL taking class 'brain break' session with the juniors
  • PAL running activity events to promote what they do
  • PAL responsible for “Caught Being Active” Awards and “Fair Play”
  • PAL setting up weekly crazes such as skipping, elastics and wheel days
  • PAL setting up a teacher versus student challenges
  • PAL buddying up with junior students

The opportunities are limitless!!

Getting started with PAL

Stirring interest

  • Introduce the programme in assembly with a guest speaker
  • Promotional flyers around the school
  • Special lunchtime coaching sessions
  • Get potential PAL to complete an application form, click here for an example.

Training PAL

Click here to download the Teacher Training manual to assist in setting up the PAL programme.

Click here to download the Student Training booklet which can be used in conjunction with the Teacher Training booklet.