We Are Forging Futures featured in YST Physical Literacy toolkit

Alongside other National Governing Bodies, We Are Forging Futures is part of Youth Sport Trust’s new Physical Literacy toolkit, helping to embed physical literacy into workforce and staff training.

The Physical Literacy toolkit aims to equip organisations and individuals with the resources to embed physical literacy in staff and workforce training. Physical literacy is defined by the International Physical Literacy Association (IPLA) as “the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life”.

Physical literacy is central to our work at We Are Forging Futures. Fencing often appeals to young people who are uninterested in or lack the confidence to play typical sports. The creativity of swordplay allows them to imagine themselves as someone entirely different, such as a character from a fantasy world. Doing so allows them to develop the courage and resilience necessary to get active, building a positive relationship with physical activity.

The tasks in the Physical Literacy toolkit can either be applied directly or adapted to suit an organisation’s structure and aims. The toolkit contains three chapters:

Ignite – Why it matters?
Connect our networks with their own relationship with movement and physical activity to better understand what we mean by the term, considering what it means personally and professionally.

United – What can we do differently, together?
Develop consistency of understanding which impacts consistency of policy and practice to ensure positive movement experiences for all.

Excite – How to build momentum, create ripples.
Empower and elevate examples of impact, creating more advocates, which provides the resources for organisations and individuals to embed physical literacy in their workforce training.