+44 07513 522 896
info@ptcsports.co.uk
+44 07513 522 896
info@ptcsports.co.uk
Have you ever noticed how a simple after-school sports session can do more than just tire kids out? It turns out, it can genuinely shape their future! A recent study commissioned by Sky and carried out by Public First found that girls in the UK who take part in after-school sports are 50% more likely to reach top professional roles later in life. That’s about the same impact as getting a university degree (The Guardian, 2025).
According to the research, women who played sports as children were significantly more likely to achieve senior professional roles later in life. These results are not a surprise to us though, as we know all the physical and mental benefits of sports.
However, we are disappointed to report that despite this benefit, girls are still much less likely to play a sport than boys. In fact, girls annually participate in 280 fewer hours of sport. At PTC Sports, we feel passionate about changing this inequality, and in this blog, we’ll be diving into the benefits of sports and how we can spark change.
Resilience is the Strongest Muscle
Contrary to common knowledge, participating in sports isn’t just about scoring goals or running fast. It’s those micro moments: learning a tricky skill, getting it wrong, but picking yourself up and trying again. Every success and failure builds confidence, adaptability, discipline and, most importantly, resilience.
Research findings demonstrate that females with a childhood history of sports cope with stress, handle pressure and recover faster up to a third more than those who didn’t play sport as children. In addition, those studies show that active children become active adults who are more open to enjoying trying new things, thus opening the door to more experiences and career opportunities.
The science is extremely exciting, but unfortunately, only 45% of 10–15-year-old girls currently participate in the UK recommended levels (Sports England, 2024). This is a clear missed opportunity and an easy way to enrich our girls to both invest in and enhance their future.
Sports, especially team sports, provide the foundations for many life skills that extend beyond the playground. Athletic pursuits refine leadership, communication and collaborative skills. Reports also demonstrate higher self-esteem, social skills and confidence. At a time when most children’s peer interactions are virtual, sport provides a fantastic opportunity to develop emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills, which improve academic quests, further studies and provide lifelong skills for professional life.
Eliminating Hurdles and Barriers
The most significant barriers for girls partaking in sports are cost, distance, and access to facilities (Sport England, 2024). The good news is that the UK Government is investing £400 million into grassroots sports, making sure opportunities exist for all children, regardless of their background.
Together, we can make a difference starting now, providing access to exercise and sports with increased availability and provision in both schools and after-school clubs. Our aim is to create spaces that are safe, inclusive, fun, and welcoming, which, in our experience, can make all the difference.
PTC Sports: The Answer for Raising Active Kids
At PTC Sports, we keep moving even when the school bell rings at the end of the day. Our iconic after-school clubs and holiday programmes aim to keep children active, moving, and, most importantly, having fun. We pride ourselves on providing a wide range of activities which eliminate gender stereotypes, ensuring an inclusive space for children to thrive regardless of skill or capability.
Our highly trained coaches are skilled in empowering every child by celebrating every success, no matter how small, to ensure that every child feels able and safe to try something new. From athletics and football to gymnastics and multi-sport sessions, the focus is on confidence, happiness, and skills that enrich them for life.
Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, if you want to ensure you give your pupils and kids the best start, explore our after-school packages and holiday clubs. We are fully committed to advancing opportunities for girls’ access to sport for a brighter future. Contact us today to get started.
