Sport literacy for health and well-being
Promoting literacy, numeracy and well-being through physical activity
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The project partners were:
Laois Sports Partnership
Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB)
Down Syndrome Ireland Laois branch
About this project
This project helped adults with intellectual disabilities to build everyday literacy and numeracy skills through fun, inclusive physical activities. It also supported health, confidence and social inclusion.
The project ran over two months in summer 2025, with learners meeting twice a week. Activities were adapted to suit different ability levels and used plain language, visual supports and clear instructions. Due to strong local interest, the group grew from 12 to 26 learners.
Activities included games such as boccia, target throwing and “beach” volleyball. Learners used simple score sheets to practise counting and recording. Sessions took place outdoors where possible, using local facilities and equipment. Learners tracked their progress each week and celebrated their achievements together. The project supported learning for life and encouraged peer support and wellbeing.
More about this project
Each session combined physical activity with simple, practical literacy and numeracy tasks. Learners practised reading instructions, counting scores and recording results in ways that felt useful and enjoyable. Activities were designed to be clear and achievable for everyone.
Outdoor learning played an important role, helping learners stay active while building confidence in community spaces. Learners also kept a short weekly record of their activities. They received a certificate to recognise their effort and progress at the end of the programme.
To support wider use of the project, the team has applied for funding to develop the adapted materials into two easy-to-use workbooks:
one for learners, and
one for tutors.
These resources will include clear guidance on how to run the activities. The aim is to test and improve the materials and then share them across the sports partnership network. These resources will allow similar programmes to be delivered in other areas.