type

  • Feature Article
  • Podcast
  • Research

theme

  • Instant Activity
  • Food Literacy
  • Outdoor Learning
  • Physically Active Learning
  • Social Emotional Learning
  • Cross-Curricular Learning
  • Models-Based Approach
  • PHE Community
  • Healthy School Communities
  • Fundamental Movement Skills
  • Dance Education
  • Digital Literacy
  • Health Education
  • Financial Literacy
  • Physical Education
  • Sex Education
  • Educational Leadership
  • Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
  • Teacher Education
  • Mental Health
  • Substance Use
  • Truth & Reconciliation

Search Results

SORT BY:

Support for Social Development for Young Women and Girls Experiencing Systemic Barriers

youth learning dance

PROPEL - Support for Social Development for Young Women and Girls Experiencing Systemic Barriers

PROPEL is a pilot project that invited girls and young women experiencing systemic barriers to physical activity to co-design a physical activity program to increase their access, participation, and inclusion in programming. The project focused on identifying structural, social, cultural, and interpersonal barriers to participation, and incorporated ways to address them in the programming. Participants expressed that the PROPEL project increase their access and rates of physical activity, they also shared that their feelings of belonging, and social and community connections increased as a result of their participation in the project. Professional development opportunities to front-line staff of various education settings, including child and youth workers and educational assistants were also provided to increase their knowledge, skills, and abilities for developing inclusive programming. 

PHE Canada engaged 3 sites, 54 students in grades 8-12, and 11 front line workers in the project. The video shares first-hand experiences of the programming and resulting impacts for the participating sites.

 

The following outcomes were achieved with the PROPEL pilot:

  • Increased intention of participants to engage in physical activity.
  • Improved cultural awareness, confidence, and social engagement for participants.
  • Reduction in identified barriers to participation. 
  • Greater inclusion across sport and physical activity opportunities.
  • Enhanced capacity of front line staff to provide quality physical activity programming and support to youth facing systemic barriers.

Recent Posts

A group of children joyfully running down a brightly lit hallway, showcasing their excitement and energy. / Un groupe d'enfants court joyeusement dans un couloir, exprimant l'énergie et l'enthousiasme.
Active Bodies, Thriving Minds: Bridging the Physical Activity–Mental Health Gap in Schools
[ Feature Article ] How can we better connect the dots between movement and mindset in our schools? This article draws on research conducted in Ontario school boards and schools; however, the challenges and opportunities identified are relevant across Canada. While specific policies and programs may differ between provinces and territories, schools nationwide are grappling with many of the same questions around student mental health, physical activity, and how best to support young people to thrive amongst competing demands.
Authored by: Dr. Sasha Gollish, Sarah Ryan, Vanessa Coulbeck, Samira Sunderji, Dr. Catherine Sabiston
1. Un groupe d'étudiants marchant ensemble sur la rue, discutant et riant joyeusement.
When Research Drives Action: The University of Moncton Uses PHE Canada’s Advocacy Report to Strengthen Its Physical Education Program
[ Feature Article ] The University of Moncton drew on PHE Canada’s Erosion of Physical and Health Education in Canada advocacy report to support a review of the admission requirements for its Physical Education program. This initiative demonstrates how evidence-informed advocacy can help strengthen the preparation of future educators and support the long-term sustainability of quality physical and health education across Canada.
Authored by:
two students playing with balance board in a school gym.
The Rise of Circus Arts in Physical Education: A Fun, Engaging Way to Enhance Physical Literacy and Physical Activity Experiences
[ Feature Article ] Circus arts instruction delivered in primary physical education can have many benefits to the holistic development of children in the physical, social, psychological, and creative domains. This includes meeting curricular expectations and fulfilling many characteristics of quality physical education, including the development of physical literacy. This article addresses some of the benefits, as well as the issues to address for implementation in your school.
Authored by: JJ Ross, Bryan Vermeylen
The PHE Canada Podcast, Season 2 Episode 1
The PHE Canada Podcast, Season 2 - Episode 1: Supporting Teacher Well-Being at the University of Lethbridge
[ Podcast ] In the first episode of the second season of the PHE Canada Podcast, host Caleb Poulin sits down with Aaron Stout, Greg Ogilvie, and Dawn Burleigh from the University of Lethbridge to explore how wellness is being woven into the fabric of their teacher education program.
Authored by: Aaron Stout, Greg Ogilvie, Dawn Burleigh
A joyful group of children and adults celebrating their victory after a basketball game, smiling and cheering together.
Reconceptualizing Physical Education to Enhance Student Motivation: Overcoming Teacher, Institutional, & Student Barriers
[ Research ] Abstract The health and well-being of young people continues to be a growing concern for parents and educators across the country. Sedentary behavior and mental health issues are rising steadily in...
Authored by: Dr. David Chorney, Karly Scott
Two youth moving on running track.
Problematizing and Rethinking Elementary Track and Field School Days: Re-envisioning a Future for All
[ Research ] Abstract Elementary track and field days can be an enjoyable way of participating in physical activity outdoors. Unfortunately, these events are not always a positive experience for all students, and...
Authored by: Alexandra Stoddart, Sara Schroeter