Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is rolling out a new early identification programme to support primary‑aged children with motor coordination needs, helping schools spot potential difficulties sooner and provide the right support at an early stage.
The initiative, known as Fundamental Movement Skill Screening (FUNMOVES), has been developed by the Centre for Applied Education Research (CAER) and is being delivered in partnership with local education and health services across Dudley.
FUNMOVES introduces a structured, teacher‑led assessment for children aged 5 to 7, enabling schools to screen entire classes for early signs of motor skill difficulties.
The programme was made possible after CAER secured additional research funding, allowing the University to expand its work on evidence‑based screening tools for primary school children — tools that are now being used by the Trust.
By embedding screening into everyday school practice, the approach ensures children who may be at risk are identified early, rather than waiting for difficulties to escalate.
As part of the programme, schools receive access to a co‑ordinated package of support overseen by the Trust.
This includes training for staff delivering the screening and guidance on implementing early intervention activities within ordinarily available provision. The focus is on building confidence and capability within schools while reducing the need for late or crisis referrals.
Alongside FUNMOVES, Dudley schools now also have access to a sensory toolkit developed by the Trust’s occupational therapy service.
The toolkit helps staff better understand and respond to sensory needs in the classroom, supporting inclusive learning environments. Schools can also access a lending library in each borough, providing practical equipment and resources where additional support is required.
These tools are designed to complement the screening programme and strengthen everyday teaching practice.
Emma Geary, Children’s Occupational Therapy Service Manager at Black Country Healthcare NHS FT, said:
“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.”
The work, delivered in collaboration with Dudley Council and local physiotherapy teams, has received positive feedback from participating schools.
Teachers report that the screening is easy to implement, fits naturally within existing provision and provides valuable insight into children who may be developing motor coordination challenges.
Educators say the approach offers clarity and reassurance when concerns arise, enabling timely support without unnecessary delay.
By identifying needs earlier, the programme helps children participate more fully in everyday school life – from handwriting and PE lessons to playtime and social interaction.
Families also benefit from clearer information, earlier reassurance and faster access to support when needed, reducing anxiety and uncertainty about their child’s development.
By working proactively and collaboratively, the initiative aims to improve outcomes for children while reducing pressure on specialist services further down the line.
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