Narrative enquiry into the physical literacy journeys of further education young ambassadors

The benefits of physical literacy are widely acknowledged, with advocates recognising the importance of its development throughout the life course. Whilst the link between physical activity, health and physical literacy is well researched, there is a noticeable lack of young people’s voices in the literature. This research aims to explore the physical literacy journeys of further education young ambassadors at a 6th form college in Southwest Wales, offering holistic and valuable insights into young people's unique experiences. Qualitative semi-structured interviews provide voices and perceptions, helping to contribute to a better understanding in this context. The narrative data obtained from the interviews underwent thematic analysis, facilitating the identification of emergent key themes. As a result of the coding framework, the researcher categorised themes as, 'desire for significance,' 'personal reward,' 'significant others,' 'imagining future self,' and 'environment’. The ambassadors' desire for significance emphasises the importance of early execution of fundamental movement skills for success and sustained participation. Yet re-defining success criteria will be beneficial in fostering feelings of pride and success in all individuals. The ambassadors clearly relished personal benefits from physical activity. Thus, physical education should prioritise autonomy and choice, focussing on personal reward and enjoyment when planning these opportunities. Various significant others played crucial roles in the ambassadors' lives, with teachers and family responsible for activity levels and peer groups acknowledged as strong determinants in activity choice and frequency. Promoting adult activity therefore provides relatable role models for young people to aspire to. The ambassadors’ keen sense of improving prospects highlights the need for universities to facilitate personal development and establish systems for mentoring students. Additionally, diverse student physical activity programs enhance the appeal of the institution. The scope of environmental influences ambassadors encountered gives prominence to the need for local authority providers to create safe and accessible opportunities. Furthermore, increasing knowledge of engagement in outdoor pursuits available locally is necessary to increase physical literacy.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

ma

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Simms, Rhiannon

• RA0421 Lechyd cyhoeddus. Glanweithdra. Meddygaeth Ataliol

Dc Identifier Grantnumber

UWTSD

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.uwtsd.ac.uk:3029