A Black Country NHS Trust is implementing an early‑identification programme, working in partnership with local education and health services to support children with motor coordination needs.
Known as Fundamental Movement Skill Screening, the initiative secured additional research funding, enabling the University to expand its work on evidence‑based screening tools for primary‑aged children, which the Trust is utilising.
The initiative introduces a structured, teacher‑led assessment for children aged 5 - 7, allowing schools to screen whole classes for early signs of motor skill difficulties.
As part of this work, schools gain access to a comprehensive package of support coordinated by the Trust, including training for staff delivering the screening and early interventions.
In addition to FUNMOVES, Dudley schools now also have access to a sensory toolkit developed by the occupational therapy service which equips schools to better understand and respond to sensory needs as well as a lending library in each borough, providing practical resources for schools requiring additional support.
The work - delivered in collaboration with Dudley Council and local physiotherapy teams - has received highly positive feedback so far. Schools report that the screening is easy to implement, fits naturally within ordinarily available provision, and provides valuable insight into children who may be at risk of motor coordination challenges.
Jennifer Cartwright, Special Educational Needs Coordinator who has taken part in the programme, said: “Initially, all children in Years 1 and 2 were screened.
"Following this, a 12-week intervention was delivered, consisting of PE warm-ups and additional classroom-based physical activities. After this, Year 2 pupils were re-screened, and their scores were compared with their results from Year 1.
"Children who showed little or no progress were identified and provided with additional targeted support. Overall, the programme has proven useful for early identification of motor skill difficulties."
By identifying motor coordination needs earlier, the programme helps children take part more fully in school life; from handwriting and PE to playtime and social activities. Families benefit too, with clearer information, earlier reassurance and quicker access to support when needed.
Emma Geary, Children’s Occupational Therapy Service Manager at Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, added: “We are proud to be playing a key role in strengthening early identification and support for children with motor coordination needs and Fun Moves has the potential to make a real difference across the Black Country.
“Spotting motor issues early is vital, and through this programme, we’re helping to give schools the tools and confidence to recognise additional needs sooner.
"Our partnership with CAER is helping us build a strong evidence base and shape a future diagnostic pathway that will benefit children for years to come.
"We are excited about the progress so far and the positive impact this work will continue to have.”
For more information on the research, visit caer.org.uk.
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