Bjørn Friis Neerfeldt is the Secretary General of the Danish School Sport Federation – a national organisation dedicated to promoting wellbeing and learning through physical activity and movement in schools. Since assuming the role in 2018, he has led the organisation through a period of dynamic change, raising its political profile and securing a tenfold increase in public funding.

At a time when concerns about childhood obesity and sedentary lifestyles are on the rise, Friis Neerfeldt and his colleagues strongly believe that physical active learning, school sports and physical education play a crucial role in the development of young people – not only by improving physical health, but also by supporting emotional wellbeing and social growth. Moreover, an increasing body of research points to a positive correlation between physical activity and academic performance. Pupils who are physically active tend to be more alert and engaged in lessons, which can ultimately lead to better academic outcomes.

The Danish School Sport Federation works closely with ministries, municipalities, and national partners to make movement a core component of the educational experience. Friis Neerfeldt and his team were instrumental in establishing the Danish government’s National Partnership for Sport and Movement in Schools and have played a key role in shaping national policy on physical activity in education.

His previous roles include serving as a scientific adviser and team coordinator at the federation, as well as a Health Consultant at the Danish Outdoor Council. He has also taught and conducted research at the University of Southern Denmark. He lives in Nyborg with his family.