Method: The study focused on 8-9 year olds from all four provinces on the island of Ireland (Ulster, Leinster, Munster and Connaught). In total, 673 children completed physical activity and the KIDSCREEN quality of life questionnaires. Body Mass Index (BMI) was also obtained.

Results: A total of 18% of children accumulated the recommended 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) per day. There was no significant difference between the number of boys and girls achieving this level. There was no difference in MVPA levels between children across the four provinces of Ireland. Children achieving the recommended level of MVPA scored significantly higher on measures of wellbeing than less active children. Substantial gender differences in wellbeing were found that specifically related to parental and peer support where girls scored significantly higher than boys. Children in Northern Ireland reported higher wellbeing scores than their peers in the Republic of Ireland. Weight status had no associations with wellbeing. Conclusions: Children in areas of social disadvantage who meet the recommended guidelines of 60 minutes of MVPA are more likely to score higher in wellbeing. When attempting to raise children’s activity engagement, consideration should be given to the specific relationships between wellbeing and physical activity.