However, the CCPR is concerned that the target of four hours each week relates to time inside and outside the curriculum.

"Only within curriculum time can physical education help all children to learn the skills, confidence and knowledge required for life long participation in sport, dance and physical activity", said Margaret Talbot, Chief Executive, CCPR.

"For those children from families without cars and who depend on school buses to get home, and the 178,000 school-age children who care for siblings and other family members, staying on after school is not an option. For them, learning within the school curriculum is vital."

The CCPR has for a number of years campaigned for a minimum of two hours' physical activity to be provided within curriculum time and this is a central element of the CCPR's 'Challenge to the Next Government', which will be launched in Westminster next Tuesday.

Howard Wells, Chair of CCPR, emphasised another crucial element: "While this commitment is welcome, we must ensure that children in primary schools receive a quality experience and we challenge the Government to ensure that trainee teachers receive at least thirty hours' preparation for teaching physical education before they begin teaching in primary schools."