An analysis of the policy process for selected elements of the physical education, school sport and club links strategy in England

This study analyses the policy process for selected elements of the Physical Education, School Sport and Club Links (PESSCL) strategy in England. The background to the policy context provides a chronological account of the changing pOlitical ideologies and policy priorities of UK governments since the 1970s. Theoretical frameworks for policy analysis are examined and the selection of the multiple streams and advocacy coalition frameworks as two meso-Ievel theoretical tools for the analysis of the policy process is presented. The epistemological assumptions are underpinned by a 'critical realist' perspective. The empirical section of the study describes the use of case studies, semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis as the approaches selected for data collection. It is argued that by repositioning itself to deliver government policy objectives, physical education and school sport has a stronger and more visible role to play in government policy-making. It is acknowledged that divisions centred upon traditional education and sport discourses remain within the policy subsystem. Organisations such as AfPE and LEAs are increasingly positioned at the margins of the PESSCL strategy and policy-making for physical education and school sport. It is suggested that as the PESSCL strategy has embedded there is evidence of an emerging advocacy coalition for physical education and school sport led by the YST.