Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether the national delivery partner for the PE and School Sport Partnerships Network has been appointed; if not, when they expect the appointment to be made; and what role the partner will have in coordinating swimming provision and top-up swimming lessons.

The government has committed to appointing the national delivery partner for the PE and School Sport Partnerships Network before the end of 2026. The national delivery partner will use available data to identify gaps and schools with low attainment, provide swimming and water safety continuing professional development and guidance, and coordinate targeted support. This may include assistance with pool access, transport and joint-school provision, with priority given to schools where fewer pupils are meeting the national curriculum swimming requirements. By bringing together schools, local clubs and national governing bodies of sport to identify and address barriers to participation, including access to swimming, funding and support can be targeted where they are needed most.