Join the Physical Literacy Action Research Group: Cohort 1

About the Physical Literacy Action Research Group - Join today!

Following a successful pilot, we are pleased to launch Cohort 1 of the Physical Literacy Action Research Group, supporting Early Years settings to explore how physical literacy can be embedded in everyday practice and provision. 

Cohort 1 participants will build on learning from the pilot, focusing on: 

• Developing a whole-setting approach to physical literacy. 
• Supporting children to move more, think more, and use movement to regulate emotions, express themselves, and build friendships. 
• Strengthening school readiness, especially in relation to early writing, fine motor development, and confident communication. 
• Equipping the workforce with practical tools and knowledge to embed movement meaningfully across the EYFS. 

Grounded in the Physical Literacy Consensus Statement for England this project aligns with national guidance and contributes directly to EYFS learning and development goals. 

Why Physical Literacy Matters 

Physical literacy is more than physical activity. It is about helping children develop the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and understanding to value and engage in movement and to use it as a tool for learning, regulation, and wellbeing. 

Why Participate? 

This action research project will help your setting to: 

• Improve outcomes linked to school readiness, especially physical development, PSED, and early writing 
• Equip staff to identify and respond to the physical development needs of all children 
• Use low-cost, accessible ideas to enrich existing routines 
• Strengthen family partnerships around physical development 
• Celebrate and share your setting’s innovation and impact 

What’s Involved? 

The first cohort will meet in November 2025 and will continue to work together as a group until July 2026.

This is a light-touch but meaningful professional learning opportunity. 

Cohort 1:

First meeting - 19th November 2025, 9:30am - 12:00pm at Harvey Family Hub

In addition to the meeting above, cohort 1 will meet half-termly. Venues, times and dates to be agreed by the group (to include a mix of online and face-to-face). 

Your Commitment 

• Attend half termly core sessions (online or face-to-face) across the year. 
• Trial one or two practical ideas per half term from our Starter Guide. 
• Engage your team in reflection and shared planning. 
• Capture simple observations, photos, or team notes. 
• Complete a brief baseline and end-of-year survey. 
• Contribute one example of practice to the final showcase. 

Support You'll Receive 

• A Starter Guide of low-cost, low-time activities linked to writing, self-regulation, and PSED. 
• CPD input focused on workforce confidence and knowledge in physical development and literacy. 
• Professional reading and videos. 
• Access to a collaborative Microsoft Teams group and optional site visits. 
• Templates to help you plan and reflect. 
• A final event to share your journey and impact. 

Learning from the Pilot 

Pilot settings reported powerful changes across children, staff, and families:

"We stopped seeing fine motor as just 'Funky fingers'. Instead, we looked at the whole body and how children needed to move first, then write."

"We started using what we have in different ways. Like when and how we use chairs."

"The children began using movement words. They described how hopping made them feel strong or helped them calm down."

"We introduced ‘mini-motor’ routines every morning"

"Staff attitude changed towards outdoor play."         

Who can join the cohort

We welcome EYFS practitioners, teachers, and leaders from:

• Schools
• Nurseries
• PVIs

How to Express and Interest 

To express your interest, complete this form: Physical Literacy Action Group: Chohort 1 - Expression of Interest Form by the 30th September.

Delivered by

Bolton Start Well Service, in collaboration with settings across the borough.

Commitments and Cancellations

Please inform StartWellBookings@bolton.gov.uk of any change to your availability. As places are fully funded and in high demand, prompt notification of withdrawal is essential.