Last year, NTCOGSO helped shine a light on the importance of physical literacy in our schools. The Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance Australia 2022 Report Card revealed some confronting findings:
- 🏃♀️ Only 1 in 4 Australian children meet national physical activity guidelines
- ⏰ Less than a third of schools provide sufficient time for students to move
- 📱 Most young people exceed recommended screen time limits
- 👟 Overall fitness levels sit below international benchmarks
These results matter. Regular movement supports not only physical health, but also concentration, behaviour, learning and overall wellbeing.
In June 2025, we proudly shared the story of Lisa Svara, lead teacher at Nightcliff Middle School (now Nightcliff High School), who led a whole-school approach to embedding movement into learning, wellbeing and culture. The school went on to win the AIA Healthiest Schools Australia (Secondary category) and represented Australia internationally in Vietnam.
Following strong interest from members, Lisa presented at NTCOGSO’s 2025 Full Council, sharing practical strategies for embedding physical literacy across the school day. Education CE Susan Bowden, who enthusiastically joined in the activities, saw first-hand the impact this work can have.
We are thrilled to see this momentum continue! The NT Government, in partnership with School of Sport Education NT, has announced a Physical Literacy Summit on Wednesday 6 May, 2026 to explore active approaches and embed physical literacy to improve health, education and community outcomes across the NT.
This is a fantastic opportunity for schools wanting to strengthen student wellbeing and learning outcomes through movement. Register today!
We strongly encourage schools to apply and be part of this important next step for NT students.
View the 2026 Physical Literacy Summit Program here.
