Engaging Families in a School-Based Physical Literacy Programme for Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs in Mainstream School Settings

Summary

In Northern Ireland, the number of children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) has risen sharply in recent years, from around 18,000 in 2017–18 to almost 27,000 in 2023–24. These children often face physical or mental health challenges that affect how they take part in education and everyday life.

One area of concern is physical activity. Being active is vital for children’s health, development and wellbeing, but research shows that children with SEN are less active than their peers without SEN, and this gap grows wider as they get older.

A promising way to address this is by improving children’s physical literacy (PL). This refers to the motivation, confidence, knowledge and skills to take part in physical activity.

Studies suggest that children with higher PL are more likely to be active. However, children with SEN often have lower levels of PL, and we know little about how best to support them in this area.

Parents and schools can play a vital role by providing encouragement and opportunities to be active. There are a number of PL programmes to support physical literacy and motor skills in children, however, the next step is to explore how this programme could also work for children with SEN and engage parents and families more directly.

Aim:

To explore the impact of a school based PL programme for children with SEN in mainstream school settings, with and without parental involvement.

Objectives:

1. To review existing literature on PL in children with SEN.
2. To understand factors influencing experience within school-based PL programme for children with SEN.
3. To explore the impact of adding a parent training programme alongside the PL programme to further support children’s PL.
4. To identify the changes needed to roll the programme out more widely across NI.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 65%
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000 (approximately) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available to home candidates, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.