Exploring Learners’ Developmental Experiences Through a School-Based Sport Program in South Africa

Sport is regarded as a powerful tool for development and social connection. Consequently, sports and physical activity programs serve as effective means to foster healthy learners and instill positive values and life skills. The purpose of this study was to gain insights into how a school-based sport program contribute to the developmental experiences of learners in a South African public-school context. A descriptive research design was employed, using a mixed-methods approach to assess the contribution of the program to learners’ developmental experiences. A questionnaire on learners’ experiences was completed by 271 learners involved in the school-based program, followed by focus group interviews with the learners at the school. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively using SPSS, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the school-based sport program significantly contributes to the physical, personal, and social development of the learners. Additionally, the findings highlighted how school-based sport initiatives can promote physical activity and enhance interest in sport. To ensure the long-term sustainability of the school-based sport programs, it is important to strengthen collaboration between learners and teachers in effectively using sport as a tool for development within the school context.