The title ‘Active School Award’ also refers to the societal development in which an active school environment and a diverse range of physical activities throughout the school day contribute to a varied and active learning environment. This development is also expected to be incorporated into the future objectives for Physical Activity and Sport.

With the ‘Active School Award’, the KVLO wants to spotlight inspiring schools that get their students moving in all kinds of ways. Registration for secondary schools will open after the summer holidays. In 2023, Stanislas Beweeg-vmbo/mavo in Rijswijk won the ‘Sportiest Secondary School in the Netherlands’ competition.

Renewed application process

In addition to the name change, the application process has also been adapted to make participation more accessible. The new process is as follows:

  1. Call for applications: Schools are invited to apply for the award, with mutual inspiration being more important than competition. For the 2024–2025 school year, we are looking for active secondary schools. The following year, we will focus on primary schools.
  2. Registration (longlist): From 2 September, schools can register by completing a short questionnaire and providing a description of two or three initiatives they are proud of and with which they can inspire other schools. Registration is open until 1 November.
  3. Speed dates (online): Online speed dates will be held to ask the participating schools on the longlist more in-depth questions.
  4. Shortlist: A shortlist of no more than five schools will be announced by 1 December at the latest. These schools will enter the final stage. The schools that do not proceed, like the nominees, will still be invited to the final/inspiration day.
  5. Jury visits: The jury will visit the shortlisted nominated schools to gain a clear picture of the initiatives on site.
  6. Inspiration day/Award ceremony: The award will be presented during a festive gathering focused on inspiration and knowledge sharing. Next year, the ceremony will take place in Zwolle on 19 March 2025. The other nominated schools will also receive recognition.

With these innovations, the KVLO aims to inspire more schools to create an active, movement-friendly school day and environment, thereby contributing to the health and well-being of students.

The Active School Award is an initiative of the KVLO. In organizing it, the KVLO works together with partners NOC*NSF and Knowledge Centre for Sport & Physical Activity.