Not every student loves traditional sports. In many Australian schools, teachers are looking for fun, inclusive games that encourage participation without the pressure of competition, speed, or athletic ability.

At HART Sport, the leading sports, fitness and play supplier for schools and clubs, we work closely with teachers to support activities that get every student involved. Whether you’re planning a PE lesson, a house activity, or a school reward session, these interesting and novel game ideas for schools are ideal for engaging non-sporty kids while still promoting movement, teamwork and fun.

Fun Games for Kids That Focus on Participation, Not Performance

When it comes to school games, simplicity and familiarity often work best. These fun games for kids remove the pressure of winning and instead focus on laughter, balance and shared experience.

Egg and Spoon Races

A classic novelty game that remains popular for a reason. Egg and spoon races:

• Emphasise balance and concentration over speed

• Can be adapted using soft or foam eggs for safety

• Work well for mixed-ability groups

This is a low-stress activity that encourages students to try without fear of failure.

Sack Races

Sack races are energetic without being technical. Students don’t need advanced skills — just a willingness to join in.

Why teachers love them:

• Short bursts of activity (no endurance required)

• Easy to run in small spaces

• Naturally humorous, reducing self-consciousness

Interesting Games to Play That Encourage Teamwork

Teachers searching for interesting games to play in the school often want activities that build cooperation rather than individual competition.

Tug of War

When framed correctly, tug of war becomes a powerful teamwork activity rather than a test of strength.

Tips for inclusive play:

• Use mixed-ability teams

• Focus on strategy and communication

• Run short rounds to keep energy positive

This makes tug of war a great option for engaging reluctant participants.

Handball / Downball

Handball or downball is a favourite in schools because it’s:

• Easy to learn

• Quick to rotate players

• Low-equipment and adaptable
  
  

Because games are short and rules are simple, students who don’t usually enjoy sport are more willing to give it a go.

Cool Games Using Oversized and Novel Equipment

Novelty is one of the easiest ways to increase engagement. Giant games instantly grab attention and shift the focus away from athletic ability.

Giant Games

Oversized equipment turns familiar activities into something new and exciting. Benefits include:

• Reduced fear of “doing it wrong”

• Increased teamwork and problem-solving

• Strong visual appeal for younger students
  
  

These games are especially effective during fun days, rotations or reward sessions.

Cooperative Parachute Games for Inclusive Play

Few activities are as inclusive as parachute games. They’re ideal for students who prefer cooperative, non-competitive environments.

Parachute Games

Parachute activities:

• Require no individual athletic skill

• Encourage communication and rhythm

• Keep all students active at the same time
  
  

They’re particularly effective for:

• Early years

• Confidence-building sessions

• Mixed-age or mixed-ability groups

Why Novelty Games Work So Well in Schools

Novelty games succeed because they remove the pressure associated with traditional sport. Participants are able to focus on fun and building teamwork. It also allows non-sporty kids to feel included and confident.

By rotating a mix of familiar classics and creative twists, teachers can keep students engaged while supporting positive attitudes toward movement and play.

Engaging non-sporty students doesn’t require complicated rules or elite skills, it simply requires the right approach. These interesting and novel game ideas for schools show that with a focus on inclusivity, teamwork and fun, every student can enjoy being active.

HART Sport’s high-quality equipment is designed for safe, inclusive and engaging play. Whether you’re planning a PE lesson, sports carnival alternatives or school activities, the right tools make all the difference.

Explore our range of school sports and play equipment to bring these games to life in your school.