We are happy to recommend an excellent read from Nord Anglia Education’s INSIGHTS Magazine: What Sport Unlocks for Students in School and Life. This article dives into the transformative role sport plays in a child’s education—not just in terms of physical fitness, but in shaping lifelong skills and wellbeing.
Here are a few fascinating highlights from the piece:
The Confidence Factor
Sport is a proven builder of self-esteem. Students who start out hesitant often discover new strengths through encouragement, practice, and team support. One student shared how she went from “not being able to run or throw” to captaining teams and being scouted by a local football academy—all because sport unlocked her confidence.
Mental Health Benefits
Research cited in the article shows that students who participate in regular physical activity report 43% fewer days of poor mental health. Sport isn’t only about the body—it’s a critical safeguard for the mind, offering stress relief, resilience, and joy in an increasingly digital world.
Essential Life Skills
Through competition and collaboration, sport teaches children:
- How to embrace setbacks as learning opportunities
- The importance of focus, discipline, and leadership
- The joy of teamwork and building connections that last
These aren’t just “extra” skills—they are central to success in school, relationships, and life.
A Balance to Academic Pressure
In high-performing schools, students face real academic demands. Sport provides the balance they need: a place to grow, to connect with others, and to thrive outside the classroom.
Why You Should Read It
This article offers both inspiring student stories and clear evidence about why sport is more than just physical activity. It’s an education in resilience, confidence, and wellbeing—and it has important implications for every child at Country Day School.
Read the full article here: What Sport Unlocks for Students in School and Life
