4) The Level and Quality of Participation in Physical Education

Sufficient data is not available to describe in detail the level and quality of participation in Physical Education. Available research data and additional anecdotal evidence indicates that Physical Education is not provided in all schools and does not extend across the full schools cycle. A significant number of Physical Education hours are taught by unqualified teachers. Average percentage Physical Education provision score (calculated based on 16 variables) for the Limerick region taking school size into account reached 58.7 ± 22.5%. This finding clearly indicates that provision for Physical Education within Limerick is clearly below par. It is important to remember that the optimal provision score i.e. 100%, was based on minimal provision levels for an effective programme. It would be logical to assume that the findings within Limerick County would be representative of the national situation. The subject is significantly under resourced nationally and on a worldwide basis. The level and quality of participation in Physical Education will escalate rapidly with effective resourcing, promotion and the implementation of a strategic policy on Physical Education.