Kids that play hard ‘do better in exams’

All those hours spent on the sports field, dance hall, music room or school theatre could really pay off when your son or daughter is sitting exams, according to research from the Independent Schools Council (ISC).

In a study of 508 schools, they found that a correlation could be made between the number of extra-curricular activities offered and the proportion of grade B or above GCSE results achieved. The greater the number of extra-curricular activities offered, the higher the proportion of pupils gaining a grade B or above.

ISC head of research Larner Bernard commented: “You receive a more rounded education when you have a blend of good academic provision with extra-curricular activities. This leads to better social adjustment in children when they grow up, too.”

To support her findings, Larner also drew attention to an American report by Barber and Eccles in 2001, which found that sport encouraged positive youth development. Sports participation was associated with high academic performance in high school, good social skills, greater likelihood of attending college and greater autonomy and satisfaction in one’s first job.

Oxbridge’s attitude

Vicky Tuck, principal of Cheltenham Ladies College, highlighted a key problem when these findings were presented. She drew attention to the fact that Oxford and Cambridge Universities are now not so interested in extra-curricular activities and focus more on the scholar, unlike the top American universities. How should the private sector deal with this conundrum, she asked. In response, Larner Bernard pointed to her research and that of Barber and Eccles that extra-curricular activities are associated with improved academic performance.

Chief executive of the ISC David Lyscom said: “Former ISC pupils contribute greatly to society in all walks of life, including education, science and research, drama, music and sport. We can truly argue that our schools make an extraordinary contribution to public benefit.”