How an Evidence-Based PE Curriculum Boosted Maltese Children’s Fitness – and Why It Matters

In a country where over 40% of children are overweight or obese, the role of schools in promoting physical activity has never been more critical. Yet research has shown that Maltese children spend shockingly little time in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during Physical Education (PE) lessons — sometimes as little as 10 minutes in a 45-minute class.

A groundbreaking study by Amanda Fenech, N. Chockalingam, C. Formosa, and A. Gatt set out to change that. Their mission: to see whether an evidence-based PE programme could get Maltese children moving more, improve health outcomes, and tackle one of the country’s most pressing public health challenges.

The intervention: SPARK PE

The researchers introduced the SPARK PE curriculum (Sports, Play and Active Recreation for Kids) to 9–10-year-olds in two state primary schools, while a third school continued with Malta’s standard PE syllabus. SPARK is designed to ensure at least 50% of lesson time is spent in MVPA — the level recommended by international health bodies.

The results speak volumes

• MVPA during lessons jumped from 36% to over 60% in the SPARK group, compared to no improvement in the control group.

• BMI z-scores dropped significantly in the intervention group, particularly among boys, with a 15.7% reduction in overweight and obesity prevalence.

• Resting heart rate fell by an average of 4.2 bpm, signalling improved cardiovascular fitness.

• Balance and jump height improved, showing gains in both motor skills and physical performance.

• Children in the SPARK programme also showed better waist circumference profiles, a key indicator of long-term health risks.

Why this matters for Malta

In a small nation, every child’s health — and potential sporting talent — counts. The standard PE curriculum, with low MVPA time and limited lesson hours, is falling short. This research shows that structured, evidence-based PE can work here and deliver measurable improvements in health within just one school year.

With the right curriculum, trained teachers, and a commitment to active learning, PE can be transformed from a tick-box exercise into a public health powerhouse.

The big takeaway

• Policy change is urgent: Increasing PE frequency and adopting evidence-based programmes like SPARK could be one of Malta’s most effective tools against childhood obesity.

• Schools are the front line: Given compulsory attendance, they offer unmatched reach and impact.

• Performance meets prevention: This approach benefits not only public health but also Malta’s long-term sports performance by building a fitter, more active generation.

Reference: Fenech, A., Chockalingam, N., Formosa, C., & Gatt, A. (2021). Longitudinal effects of evidence-based physical education in Maltese children. Child and Adolescent Obesity, 4(1), 98–116. https://doi.org/10.1080/2574254X.2021.1915041