Nuoret heittelevät koripalloa koulun pihalla.
Laura Oja

Physical activity coach gets people on the move in upper secondary educational institutes

Physical activity coaches are professionals of student welfare in upper secondary education who support the holistic wellbeing and study capabilities of students. All students of Helsinki general upper secondary schools and the Helsinki Vocational College and Adult Institute (Stadin AO) are welcome to the free activities.

What types of activities do the physical activity coaches organise?

Physical activity coaches support the holistic wellbeing and learning capabilities of young people by offering diverse, accessible activities with an encouraging and inclusive approach. During the school year, they will organise different opportunities to exercise during the school days.

The physical activity coaches also offer more individual support for students planning to start exercising, give advice on leisure time activities and organise summer activities.

The activities organised by the physical activity coaches are free-of-charge, and participation requires no prior experience.

Physical activity coaches offer:

  • shared exercise sessions during breaktimes, opportunities to try different sports, events and club activities
  • individual and small group guidance for students needing more intensive support
  • support for starting exercising and promoting wellbeing.

Frequently asked questions by students

Why should I take part in the activities organised by the physical activity coaches?

Being physically active is a great way to promote your health and study capabilities and to recover from the stress of studies. Exercising allows you to get to know other students and have fun while doing something you enjoy.

Participating in the sessions for trying different sports and the groups and community events organised by the physical activity coaches is safe. These have helped many students find their preferred way of exercising or doing sports.

Is there a physical activity coach in my educational institute?

Yes, the physical activity coaches work in all general upper secondary schools in Helsinki, as well as the different locations of the Helsinki Vocational College and Adult Institute.

Where can I find out what activities the physical activity coaches offer in my institute?

The best way to see the options available is through your Wilma. You can also ask about the activities directly from the physical activity coaches and your school’s personnel and follow the other information channels of the educational institute. You can also ask other students about their experiences.

Can I get individual guidance and support from the physical activity coaches?

Yes, more personal guidance and support is also available.

I’m interested in this. How can I take part?

You can get involved by registering in the activities through Wilma or by contacting the physical activity coach of your educational institute. Don’t hesitate to ask for more information from the physical activity coaches, other students or the institute personnel.

Register in the activities organised by the physical activity coaches via Wilma or by contacting the physical activity coach of your educational institute.

How can I contact the physical activity coach?

You can contact physical activity coaches via Wilma or by phone.

You will find their contact details on the website of your educational institute.

Further information

Janne Koppinen 
Physical activity coach, team leader
E-mail address: janne.koppinen@hel.fi
Tel. +358 9 310 34048