Education Minister Paul Givan 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.
Paul Givan 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.
