MPs Want PE as Core Subject, 'No Ball Games' Signs Removed

Getting kids moving could soon become a national priority in England, with lawmakers calling for PE to rank alongside reading and math in schools.

A new report from Parliament's Culture, Media and Sport Committee tackles the barriers keeping people from being active. The recommendations include removing unnecessary "no ball games" signs from public spaces, doubling funding for sport and recreation over the next decade, and making PE a core subject.

The changes come as curriculum time for physical education has declined and fewer children are getting the health benefits of regular movement. Right now, PE often gets squeezed from school timetables because it's not considered essential like other subjects.

Committee chair Dame Caroline Dinenage put it simply: "We're a country of sport lovers when it comes to supporting our stars, but there are too many barriers stopping people from getting up and giving it a go themselves."

The plan calls for at least two hours of high-quality PE each week to be mandatory in schools. It also asks the government to increase spending on sport from 0.3% to 0.6% of total expenditure over 10 years.

Those "no ball games" signs might seem small, but they have a big impact. London Sport, a charity campaigning for their removal, says 560,000 Londoners are put off by the signs. Each sign removed could make up to 80 children more active.

The Ripple Effect

The report argues that investing in sport delivers major benefits beyond just fitness. Regular physical activity improves mental health, helps kids learn better, and builds stronger communities.

Lawmakers see the investment as money saved down the line. Healthier, more active people mean lower costs for the healthcare system and fewer welfare needs.

The report also recommends giving women's football a dedicated Saturday afternoon TV slot, currently blocked by broadcasting restrictions designed to boost game attendance. Evidence shows that when girls see women's sports on free TV, they feel more inspired to get active themselves.

Emily Robinson from London Sport called the report "a significant and timely intervention." She emphasized how small practical changes, like unlocking public spaces for play, can remove barriers for young people.

The government announced last year that £400 million would go toward new and upgraded grassroots sports facilities, with almost 1,000 community projects set to benefit across the UK.

A national shift in how Britain thinks about movement and activity could turn a nation of sports watchers into sports players.