Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps her Department is taking to ensure that sports predominantly chosen by male pupils are not given greater (a) priority and (b) resources within the PE curriculum than sports predominantly chosen by female pupils, such as artistic swimming.

Schools have the flexibility to organise and deliver a broad, balanced and challenging PE curriculum. The department expects schools to use their autonomy and local community knowledge when considering their pupils’ needs and interests to determine an inclusive PE and sporting offer.

This government is committed to ensuring equal access to sport for all children and young people and recognises the importance of identifying and tackling the numerous barriers to participation. Data shows that, on average, girls are less active than boys and that boys are more likely to say they enjoy taking part in exercise and sports. Further details can be found at: https://sportengland-production-files.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/2025-12/Active%20Lives%20Children%20and%20Young%20People%20Survey%20-%20academic%20year%202024-25%20report--.pdf?VersionId=IVi8OQWOGdjAiHq7IIuzIQv1JPiojXdz.

The new PE and School Sport Partnerships Network will build strong partnerships between schools, local clubs and national governing bodies, identifying and breaking down barriers to PE, sport and physical activity for children who are less active, with a specific focus on girls to improve activity levels for all pupils.