Implementing whole of school approaches to physical activity promotion in Special Education Needs schools

Summary

Schools are a preferred setting for physical activity interventions for children and adolescents, with increasing evidence of the effectiveness of comprehensive school-based physical activity interventions. National and international guidance now recommends the adoption of whole-school approaches (WSA) to physical activity, a strategy that encompasses all aspects of a school environment, including physical and cultural factors, to promote and support physical activity among pupils. However, current WSA to physical activity have been shown to be ineffective in long-term behaviour change due to poor implementation rates and sustainability. Therefore, a shift is needed to consider context and implementation factors when designing and adopting WSA to physical activity. This is particularly relevant within Special Education Needs (SEN) schools. Evidence on WSA to physical activity is currently lacking within SEN settings, but a more systematic approach that takes into account the unique needs of these pupils, the physical environment, staff training and resourcing, and community factors could greatly enhance the effectiveness of physical activity interventions, to support the health and wellbeing of children with additional needs and disabilities.

The primary aim of this programme of study is to determine whether a WSA to physical activity, including policy, program, and/or curricular change, can be co-developed, implemented and evaluated within SEN school settings using existing frameworks and guidance documents, and informed by implementation science principles.

Using a mixed-methods approach, this programme of study aims to investigate the feasibility of implementing a WSA to physical activity in SEN schools in Northern Ireland. The research will focus on co-developing, implementing, and evaluating a WSA to physical activity. Additionally, the proposed studies aim to identify facilitators and barriers to the successful implementation and sustainability of the WSA in SEN school settings.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 65%
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.