An exploration of the impact and effectiveness of a physical activity intervention on the health-related quality of life and the personal development of young people attending alternative provision

Abstract

Introduction
Evidence suggests that rates of physical activity (PA) decline through adolescence which may result in poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Adolescence is also a time of significant physical, psychological, and social change, which can contribute to poor HRQoL and deficits in personal development. It is crucial, therefore, to focus research on young people (YP) who are at greater risk, including YP in alternative education provision (AP) who are exposed to adverse life experiences that exacerbate poor HRQoL and restrict personal development. The research aims to assess the effectiveness of a PA intervention on these outcomes.
Methods
A mixed methods study framed by the 5Cs model of Positive Youth Development (PYD) – Competence, Confidence, Connection, Character, and Caring - explored the impact of a 7-month PA intervention comprising coaching in two sports (Tchoukball and badminton) on the HRQoL and personal development of YP attending an AP setting in the North of England. HRQoL data was collected via KIDSCREEN-52 at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up, together with adherence via attendance and PA data via a custom questionnaire. Qualitative data exploring participants’ experiences framed by the 5Cs of personal development were collected from YP at post-intervention and follow-up and from AP school staff post-intervention.
Results
The quantitative findings reveal increases in mean total HRQoL and increases in nine out of the ten dimensions of HRQoL from baseline to follow-up. However, only three dimensions - Physical Well-being, Psychological Well-being, and Social Support and Peers - increased at every time point. Additionally, the percentage of YP classified as Active increased from 0% to 11%. Adherence data showed that the intervention was well accepted by all YP. The qualitative findings indicate improvements in all 5Cs, however, comments by YP and school staff concentrated on changes in Connection, Competence, Character, and Confidence.
Conclusion
Collectively, the findings of this thesis indicate that the intervention was successful in improving the young people’s overall HRQoL, PA, and personal development related to the 5Cs of PYD. This thesis offers novel evidence that can be used to improve the personal qualities of YP in AP.

Date of Award	28 Feb 2025
Original language	English
Supervisor	Matthew Haines (Main Supervisor), Leanne Monchuk (Co-Supervisor) & Liane Beretta De Azevedo (Co-Supervisor)