Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with the Lionesses squad at St. George’s Park, announcing a new approach to school sport while supporting equal access.
New plans announced will include a clear focus on equal access and two hours per week of physical education.
A national network will be developed to build strong partnerships between schools, local clubs and National Governing Bodies to identify and break down barriers to sport for children who are less active.
The government has also committed to publish information about every school’s sport and enrichment offer, so parents can see what their children can play.
The Prime Minister joined the squad after training to discuss how the new approach will level the playing field for young girls and children with disabilities in England.
Lotte Wubben-Moy, a driving force of the Lionesses’ equal access campaign, welcomed the announcement and told englandfootball.com: “We want every young girl to have the opportunity to play football in school. This isn’t only about laying the foundations for future Lionesses to rise up, but also a chance for the power of football to help create change within the education system and set an example for equality.
“Only 50 per cent of secondary schools currently offer equal access to football for girls and boys. At such a crucial time in a young person’s life we cannot underestimate the positive impact football and sport can have on their physical and mental wellbeing.
“The PM’s announcement is an encouraging build upon the legacy of our EUROs win in 2022. We as Lionesses are eager to see the speedy introduction of these new proposals. A bright future is ahead.”
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham added: “The Lionesses are an inspiration to a generation of girls playing football. They continue to campaign for equal access in schools – and this announcement will help deliver just that.
“We have driven growth in women and girls’ football across the country with 56 per cent more women and girls playing football since 2020.
“However, there is much more to do in schools and the Government’s proposals to have School Sport Partnerships in place by the 2026 academic year will make a huge difference in providing schools the network they need to deliver more and better school sport.”
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to wish the squad good luck ahead of this summer’s tournament, saying: “I speak for the entire nation when I say good luck to our Lionesses for this summer’s EUROs. We will be behind you every step of the way.
“Not only have you made history, but you have inspired the next generation to find a sport they love. That’s why I’m delighted we are delivering on your call to ensure they have the opportunity to go on and play – maybe even for England one day.”