School, physical activity and well-being, 2012-2014

Clustered randomised control trial data on physical activity levels and feeling of well-being with 2381 pupils in 60 schools in England. Data were collect via questionnaires, through the wearing of accelerometers, via the National Pupil Database, the School Census and observational ratings. Data were collected pre and post the interventions which involved six lessons, often, but not always conducted over 6 weeks - the dates of data collection are included. <p>The project aims to develop and evaluate school-based interventions aimed at increasing levels of physical activity amongst students at the start of secondary school, thereby increasing feeling of wellbeing.
Lack of physical activity is a persistent and growing problem in this age group. Further about one in ten school-aged children suffer psychological problems such as anxiety, depression and conduct disorders.Taking regular physical activity can enhance the psychological, as well as physical health of young people. However, to date, national attempts to address this issue have not met with great success.

The MJVE project involves two school-based interventions in a clustered, randomised control trial with schools allocated to one of the interventions, or both, or to a control group. The 'participatory learning' intervention will run through Geography lessons using GPS; and a 'personal coach' intervention, linked to Physical Education classes. Both involve innovative student participation and collaboration with teachers, as well as capturing data for the research. Measures of wellbeing and physical activity will be collected using questionnaires, and using activity monitors and measures of height and weight. Information will be recorded at several time points to assess the success of the interventions.</p>