What happened next? Exploring the sustainability of a whole-of-school physical activity initiative

Increasing physical activity (PA) opportunities in schools have emerged as a global priority. The ‘Active School Flag’ (ASF) is an example of an initiative that aims to promote participation in PA in school settings by achieving a physically educated and physically active school community. While there is some evidence of the short-term gains resulting from such initiatives, less is known about the medium and longer-term effects. Insight on the medium-term effects of the ASF can contribute to the literature on whole-of-school PA promotion. The purpose of the study was to determine the medium-term impact of the ASF initiative on whole-of-school PA promotion practices in Irish schools. Semi-structured interviews with lead teachers and/or principals in seven primary schools, who were awarded the ASF status more than two years prior to the interview, were conducted. Perspectives on how award of the ASF had influenced policy and practices related to PA promotion were explored. Specific examples of targeted projects within individual schools were examined with consideration of what aspects were sustained, who was involved and how they had evolved over time. Data were analysed inductively through a constant comparative approach. Results revealed that while some lasting changes were maintained in these schools, many threats to sustainability existed. The results provide insight into the medium-term impact of whole-of-school PA promotion that could be valuable for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers.