When Research Drives Action: The University of Moncton Uses PHE Canada’s Advocacy Report to Strengthen Its Physical Education Program

One of PHE Canada’s core objectives is to ensure that the voice of physical and health education is heard across the country. Whether through raising awareness among decision-makers, supporting postsecondary institutions, or promoting evidence-based policies, our work is ultimately focused on creating meaningful change. Today, we are pleased to see that goal being put into action.

Evidence has the power to influence the decisions that shape the future of physical and health education. A recent example comes from the University of Moncton, which 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.

As part of a proposal presented to university decision-making bodies, the program team used findings from the report to highlight the challenges facing physical education teacher preparation in Canada. The report points to a decline in the number of specialized physical and health education teacher education programs, a shrinking pool of specialists, and the potential impact these trends may have on the quality of education provided to young people. These findings helped inform discussions aimed at ensuring the quality, relevance, and long-term sustainability of the University of Moncton’s program.

Beyond this specific initiative, the process demonstrates the importance of having credible data and practical tools to support the advancement of physical and health education within educational institutions. When research findings and advocacy efforts are integrated into decision-making processes, they can help move important conversations forward and support meaningful change.

For PHE Canada, this is an encouraging example of the impact that resources developed for the physical and health education community can have. We congratulate the University of Moncton for its leadership and commitment to preparing future educators. This initiative serves as a reminder that advocacy, when grounded in evidence and guided by a shared vision, can be a powerful catalyst for change.