Education Minister has announced a new RAISE
initiative aimed at encouraging pupil engagement through sports
at primary school level in RAISE localities.
The RAISE Active Schools Programme is a new multisport Physical
Education initiative designed to encourage attendance, enhance
pupil wellbeing and support strategic objectives of raising
achievement and aspiration through a community-based approach.
The Programme will deliver a structured model of sessions
delivered by four professional sporting organisations across 96
primary schools. Participating schools will take part in a 10
week programme block, with delivery provided in addition to
existing Physical Education provision.
said: “This new initiative will
provide opportunities for up to 9,600 pupils in selected primary
schools situated across the 18 RAISE localities to participate in
structured sessions across a variety of sports lead by
professional bodies. It will provide access to coaching that
these pupils may not otherwise have access to, enhancing existing
PE provision and building capacity in schools selected.
“Participation in sport provides opportunities for pupils that go
far beyond physical benefits and skills. There is potential to
contribute to pupils achieving their potential through greater
engagement, attendance and wellbeing supported by opportunities
to develop teamwork, confidence and leadership skills.”
The Programme has been developed in partnership with the Irish FA
Foundation, Ulster Rugby, Ulster GAA and Ulster Hockey. The
Irish FA Foundation will act as lead partner for delivery of the
Programme.
Welcoming the launch of the initiative, Francis Brennan, Schools
Development Manager, Irish FA Foundation said: “I am delighted
that the Irish FA Foundation will lead delivery of the RAISE
Active Schools Programme. This initiative represents a
significant investment in children's wellbeing and engagement,
particularly in communities where the impact will be greatest.
Working alongside Ulster Rugby, Ulster GAA and Ulster Hockey, we
will provide high‑quality coaching that builds confidence,
strengthens attendance and supports pupils to reach their full
potential. Together, we are creating lasting change in primary
schools across Northern Ireland and giving thousands of children
the opportunity to thrive through sport.”
The Minister concluded: “I am delighted to have secured the
invaluable expertise and support of the Irish FA Foundation,
Ulster Rugby, Ulster GAA and Ulster Hockey in developing and
delivering this Programme. By building capacity within schools,
we are ensuring sustainability beyond the life of the initiative,
enabling long term improvements in Physical Education provision
and creating the best possible opportunities to improve
educational outcomes for children who face additional barriers.”
The Programme is being delivered as part of the Department of
Education's RAISE Programme and sees a further investment of
£0.5m in tackling educational disadvantage through the
initiative.
Further details on how to express an interest in taking part in
the RAISE Active Schools Programme is available at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/raise-active-schools-programme-call-expressions-interest
The closing date for Expressions of interest is Friday 8 May 2026
at 12noon.
Further information on RAISE Cross Cutting Initiatives is
available at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/raise-cross-cutting-initiatives
Notes to editors:
The RAISE Programme is funded through the Shared Island Fund and
represents an investment of £20million/€24million over two years
from 2024 –2026, with the potential for further funding.
