The Curriculum Sports Programme has been running for 10 years, with IFA and GAA-affiliated coaches delivering physical literacy to 38,000 primary school children per year across 450 local schools.
It was believed the programme would cease at the end of this month, however, the Department of Education has said funding from the October Monitoring Round will see it continue until March 2018 at least.
“This is welcome news regarding the reprieve and extension of the Department’s Curriculum Sports Programme,” said Mr Lyttle.
“I have actively supported the continuation of this scheme and its future directly with the Department of Education Permanent Secretary and the Head of the Civil Service as part of a cross-party delegation.
“Only four per cent of children get the recommended two hours a week of physical education. This programme is vital in ensuring those figures are increased, and all young people partake in a fit and healthy lifestyle.”