Is a low-intensity, low-cost implementation strategy (ePACE) as effective in increasing teachers’ implementation of classroom physical activity as the previously established Physically Active Children in Education (PACE) implementation intervention?

This multi-component intervention seeks to support teachers’ scheduling and delivery of ‘Energisers’ (i.e., short 5–10 minute bouts of physical activity that occur during class-time). The intervention is built on extensive evidence from previous phases of the Physically Active Children in Education (PACE) program (described below as the comparator arm for this trial). Following baseline data collection and randomisation, participating schools will receive all intervention materials and resources required to support the implementation of the physical activity policy at their school. The adapted version of the program (i.e., ePACE) will consist of: 1. Executive support: At the study outset, principals will receive an information statement (specific to participation in this trial) via email outlining the importance and benefits of Energisers and be encouraged to show their support by communicating (e.g., via newsletters, assemblies and staff meetings) their expectations regarding the implementation of Energisers to the broader school community (i.e., staff, students and parents). In addition, there will be one follow-up email to principals to request a summary of how this was achieved. 2. In-school champion support: Following school enrollment, participating schools will be encouraged to nominate an in-school champion who drives the participation of teachers in the program and facilitates access to online learning (see point 3). Nominated in-school champions will be emailed a manual with guidance relating to their role (specific to this study) and asked to continue to promote the implementation of physical activity at their schools for the duration of the trial (i.e., 12 months) and beyond if possible. 3. Online learning: Participants allocated to this group will receive access to an online portal including educational content and resources and self-directed course modules specific to implementing the physical activity policy consisting of sample schedules and policies (i.e., developed specifically for the trial), action planning templates and instructions, short videos and quizzes and short activities that boost self-efficacy and motivation to implement Energisers. Following completion of baseline data collection and randomisation, participants will receive access to the online portal and be asked to complete all online course modules within 10 weeks. It is estimated that this will take no more than 3 hours (Note: participants can save their progress and return later if needed). Access to the online portal (i.e., resources and course), however, will be perpetual. That is, participants will be able to return to the portal for resources at any time during the 12-month study period and beyond. Website analytics will be used to monitor the uptake and usage of the online portal and course. We will encourage in-school champions to send a gentle reminder to participating teachers (after approximately 4 weeks; if deemed appropriate) to promote the completion of this component. 4. Equipment pack vouchers: Nominated in-school champions who have completed their online course will be able to request voucher codes from the research team to purchase basic sports equipment that may be used to facilitate the delivery of Energisers. These vouchers will have no expiry date and can be used when ordering directly from our nominated supplier who will deliver specifically branded sports equipment packs (i.e., including study logos) to schools. 5. Ongoing support: Participating schools will be able to seek support from project officers with any matters related to program implementation (via telephone and/or email).