As the role of sport and physical activity in education evolves, so too must the equipment and environments that support it. For today’s schools, colleges, and universities, inclusivity is a core requirement. Facilities and estates procurement teams play a pivotal role in this agenda, with decisions shaping who gets to participate, and how…
Inclusive sport should include a holistic approach to sourcing equipment and designing spaces that accommodate a diverse student body, including pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), neurodiverse students, and those who may not feel comfortable in traditional PE settings.
Adaptive and accessible equipment is becoming more widely available, and procurement teams should be actively engaging with specialist suppliers to meet a broader range of needs. Items such as tactile balls for visually impaired players, height-adjustable basketball hoops, wheelchair-friendly gym machines, and colour-coded floor markings can significantly increase participation in both mainstream and specialised sessions.
Storage and layout are also part of the equation. Multi-use indoor spaces that are flexible, clearly zoned, and equipped with mobile or retractable gear allow staff to run differentiated sessions with ease. Modular solutions, like mobile target boards, portable balance equipment, and adjustable hurdles, are enabling PE departments to create more inclusive, engaging activities without costly structural changes.
Crucially, inclusive procurement also means considering students who may feel excluded due to confidence, culture, gender identity, or body image. Procurement teams are supporting wellbeing-led sport initiatives by investing in equipment for non-competitive or alternative activities, such as yoga mats, dance-based fitness, or outdoor circuits.
Engaging end-users is key. Involving PE teachers, SEN coordinators, and student voice groups in procurement planning ensures that investment truly reflects the needs of the community. Many schools and universities now run annual reviews of sports equipment usage and participation data to help inform buying priorities.
Sustainability should not be overlooked either. Many inclusive sports equipment manufacturers now offer products made with recycled materials or support take-back schemes, helping institutions meet both accessibility and ESG goals.
Ultimately, by embedding inclusivity into procurement frameworks, facilities and estates teams can transform sports participation from something that benefits a few into something that welcomes all. At a time when wellbeing, belonging, and engagement are top priorities across the education sector, smarter equipment procurement is a practical and powerful way to deliver on those values.
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Photo by Patrick Schöpflin on Unsplash
