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<p>We have high aspirations for all children. To enable all young people to realise
their potential we want schools to help ensure they are well-rounded, confident, resilient
and happy. Schools must provide opportunities and encourage their pupils to develop
a wider set of skills to help them not only exceed at school, but prepare them to
go on to contribute positively to the economy and to society as fully engaged citizens.</p><p>
</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Schools are a fantastic asset in local communities, and we
are encouraging schools to extend their childcare offer to parents. We have simplified
the rules and aligned staffing requirements for before/after school care and holiday
provision. This makes it easier for schools to offer extra-curricular activities out
of school hours.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>As part of Ofsted school inspections,
inspectors will consider how schools supplement the formal curriculum with extra-curricular
opportunities for pupils to extend their knowledge and understanding and improve their
skills in a range of artistic, creative and sporting activities.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>
</p><p>Through the primary PE and sport premium, over £300 million of ring-fenced
funding was paid direct to schools across academic years 2013/14 and 2014/15 to improve
PE and sport. The Government has committed to continue this funding of £150 million
a year until 2020. Independent research found that over 70% of schools used the funding
to provide more extra-curricular activities and offer a wider range of sports. Schools
also made changes to the costs of extra-curricular PE and sports – a third of these
reduced the costs to attend, and a fifth made some clubs free to attend.</p><p> </p><p>
</p><p> </p><p>The department has invested over £460 million from 2012-2016 in a diverse
portfolio of music and arts education programmes that are designed to improve access
to the arts for all children regardless of their background and to develop talent
across the country. This includes support for music education hubs which provides
opportunities for children and young people to play in ensembles and develop singing
strategies.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Over £450,000 has been provided to Debate
Mate across three academic years to support their programme of after-school debate
clubs. Debate Mate clubs are aimed at disadvantaged young people in years 5-10 and
aim to encourage personal empowerment, increase academic achievement and develop life
skills.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>
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