Centre for Sport, Physical Education and Activity Research

The Centre for Sport, Physical Education & Activity Research (spear) has a national reputation for excellence and innovation. We are a proactive, dynamic unit responsive to existing and emerging public health, sport and physical activity strategies and priorities and our work has made a significant contribution to the evidence base, particularly around the physical activity, health and wellbeing of young people, underrepresented and less active populations.

The Centre’s research is funded by a range of private, public and third sector organisations including the Youth Sport Trust, Department of Health, Department for Education, parkrun UK, Premiership Rugby, Chance to Shine, Sport Birmingham, Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation, Mencap and ukactive. spear is located within the Faculty of Social & Applied Sciences and comprises a team of experienced core staff, with staff from across the University joining the spear team for specific projects.