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Cultivating Relationship to Movement
Cultivating Relationship to Movement

A RYHEALTH initiative for Healthier Schools

RYHEALTH, in collaboration with Change the Game and RF-SISU’s Rörelsesatsning i skolan, implements development program aimed at integrating physical literacy into three schools in Västerbotten (Sweden). By focusing on the joy and quality of movement experiences, this initiative empowers educators and students to embrace a healthier, more active future.

What is Physical Literacy?

Physical literacy goes beyond traditional notions of fitness or physical education. It represents a holistic understanding of how positive movement experiences can build confidence, competence, and motivation in young people. By nurturing this mindset, schools can help students form lasting relationships with physical activity—setting the foundation for lifelong health and well-being.

The Challenge: Three Schools Leading the Way

From September until January, three school teams from Västerbotten have stepped up to pilot the program, showcasing their commitment to social innovation and better health outcomes for their students. These teams—Lövångerskolan, Norrhammarskolan, and Mariehemsskolan—are working closely with RYHEALTH and Change the Game to reimagine how physical activity is introduced and sustained in schools.

Each team consists of dedicated educators who are not only embracing the concept of physical literacy but are also serving as early adopters, willing to test new approaches, face challenges, and inspire others in their communities.

Transforming Schools Through Physical Literacy

The program is grounded in the principles of the Diffusion of Innovations theory, helping educators explore five critical questions:

  1. Complexity: How do we discuss positive movement experiences in our schools?

  2. Compatibility: How does the new approach align with our values and needs?

  3. Relative Advantage: What benefits do we see in adopting this concept?

  4. Testability: How can we develop, trial and/or validate activities and environments based on these ideas?

  5. Measurability: How can we assess a pedagogue´s ability to create positive movement experiences and to influence their stakeholders.

Through this framework, participating schools are not just learning—they are leading.


A Program Designed for Impact

Structure and Activities:

  • Workshops: Educators receive in-depth training on physical literacy and how to create environments that inspire movement.

  • Collaborative Learning: School teams share their progress and learn from others’ experiences in joint meetings.

  • Practical Implementation: Each team applies new approaches within their schools, tailoring activities to fit their unique contexts.

  • Coaching and Support: Teams receive one-on-one coaching to refine their strategies and engage key stakeholders.

Program Timeline:
From a kickoff workshop in September to a concluding seminar in early 2025, the program provides ongoing support to ensure success. This includes site visits, digital check-ins, and opportunities to showcase achievements to other schools and communities.

Looking Ahead: Expected Outcomes

The program aims to:

  1. Strengthen educators’ understanding of how physical literacy can improve health and well-being.

  2. Provide practical examples of how schools can create environments that foster a love for movement.

  3. Highlight inspiring stories of change that encourage other schools to adopt similar approaches.

  4. Empower students, particularly those less inclined to engage in physical activity, to discover joy and confidence through movement.

By embracing physical literacy, these schools are setting a powerful example for how education can contribute to a healthier society. The lessons learned from this initiative will not only influence regional practices but also provide valuable insights for health promotion efforts across Europe.


Author: Rebekka Mannelqvist, RV