School-based Fundamental Movement Skill Screening (FUNMOVES)

Researchers from CAER co-developed a school-based universal screening tool (FUNMOVES) with teaching staff in Bradford. Across three studies over 1000 children were tested and both rigorous statistical techniques and teacher reflections were utilised to iteratively modify the screening tool to ensure strong validity and feasibility. The finalised version of FUNMOVES enables teachers to evaluate the fundamental movement skills of a whole class within an hour, using resources readily available in schools. Alongside Occupational and Physio therapists, intervention activity resources have been designed with the aim to improve children’s fundamental movement skills (FMS), both within school and in their every day lives at home. These now require testing alongside FUNMOVES screening to assess if they will improve FMS.

FUNMOVES may provide a solution to the inequalities that are present within the healthcare system which hosts motor skill assessments currently within the UK. There is great potential for universal screening of FMS ability in schools, including increased teacher awareness, expedited time to assessment and intervention, as well as increased communication and collaboration between healthcare, education and families.