We've all been there - fantastic! New Sports Premium funding! Oh no - no time to decide how to spend it! Perhaps we just spend in in the same way as last year? Sure! And so the loop continues.... well not this year! In this post we're pinpointing 10 big mistakes that many practitioners make when deciding how to use their Sports Premium funding - and how to avoid them.

1. Overlooking Outdoor Opportunities
It’s very easy to focus spending on indoor equipment, or structure PE activities. But don’t forget the endless potential of outdoor active play! Investing in open-ended outdoor resources can help foster movement, imagination, and teamwork all at once. Think beyond footballs and goalposts — loose parts, climbing frames, and outdoor trails can keep children active all year round.

2. Buying What You’ve Always Bought
Routine is comfortable, but innovation energises. Repeating the same purchases each year may feel safe, but new and varied resources can reinvigorate your physical activity offer. Exploring fresh options — like nature-based physical play resources — can bring renewed excitement to both staff and pupils.

3. Missing Staff Input
Your team knows your cohort best. Neglecting their ideas could mean missing out on clever, creative, and practical suggestions that meet the needs of your children (and only yours!). Why not involve them in the planning process? At Cosy, we’ve seen fantastic outcomes when teachers collaborate to select resources that suit their individual settings.

4. Forgetting Pupil Voice
Who better to guide your decisions than the young people who make your job worthwhile? Children are experts in their own play and movement. Including them in your resource selection can boost engagement and ensure your spending really hits the mark.

5. Over-Relying on Digital Solutions
Tech has its place — but nothing replaces the benefits of real-world, physical movement. Outdoor and active learning opportunities encourage balance, coordination, and healthy habits. Physical resources like obstacle trails or den-building kits provide hands-on learning far beyond a screen.

6. Thinking Short-Term
Quick wins are tempting, but long-term thinking pays off. Durable, versatile equipment that can be used across year groups and seasons delivers lasting value. Cosy Direct’s outdoor ranges are designed to withstand enthusiastic use and British weather — making them an investment for years to come.

7. Neglecting Inclusivity
Every child deserves to feel confident and included in physical activity. Avoid the trap of one-size-fits-all resources, without considering how every child can access them. Choose items that offer challenge at a range of levels, and invite creativity, not just competition. Our inclusive play and movement sets are made with diversity in mind.

8. Missing the Link with the Curriculum
Your Sports Premium can do more than promote PE — it can support learning across the curriculum. With the right resources, movement becomes part of maths, science, and literacy too! Think active phonics trails or problem-solving obstacle courses.

9. Forgetting the Joy Factor
Activity should be joyful, not just structured. Avoid overly rigid resources — open-ended play items invite laughter, movement, and imagination. Joy is what keeps children coming back for more.

10. Not Asking for Help
You’re not alone! There are experts who can help you make the most of your budget. At Cosy Direct, we love helping schools find the perfect blend of fun, function, and value. Just get in touch — we’re always happy to chat through ideas.

Let’s Make It Count
Your Sports Premium has huge potential — and with thoughtful choices, it can truly transform your physical activity offer. Let Cosy Direct help you build a foundation of movement, exploration, and joyful learning that lasts a lifetime.