The Welsh government has launched a £1.78m Physical Literacy Programme for Schools (PLPS).

The initiative is designed to meet Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson's Schools and Physical Activity Task and Finish Group's recommendation that all young people in Wales should become physically literate.

Targeted at delivering a long term improvement in physical literacy – and an increase in physical activity amongst children in schools in Wales – PLPS aims to help get young people hooked on sport for life and to adopt healthy lifestyles.

The initiative will develop a draft Physical Literacy Framework and increase sport and physical activity in schools, with a focus on those in deprived areas.

While the initial £1.78m grant will cover the 2014-15 school year, further funding of up to £2.35m has been agreed in principle to continue this work in 2015-16 – subject to a review.

Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson said: "I am pleased that Welsh Government has decided to invest not only in the development of a Physical Literacy Framework but also in supporting schools to ensure that every pupil has a high quality experience.

"Being active and taking part in sport has so many benefits that we should be doing everything we can to provide children and young people with the skills and confidence to enjoy a lifelong relationship with sport.

"Through this programme I would hope that we can create a generation of young people who are confident in their ability to participate in a range of activities throughout their life."

Education Minister Huw Lewis added: "The significant funding we've announced today will widen children and young people's engagement in PE and sport in schools, particularly within schools in deprived communities.

"Every child in Wales should have a high quality experience of PE and school sport and every school should value the importance of physical activity to the health and wellbeing of their pupils."