A series of multi-centre trials investigating the effectiveness of targeted exercise interventions for children with cerebral palsy, including dynamic stretching techniques and strengthening programmes aimed at improving physical outcomes in young people with spastic cerebral palsy.

The ROBUST Study focuses on adolescents aged 12 to 18 years, evaluating an adolescent-specific strengthening programme compared to usual NHS care. The SPELL Study examines younger children aged 4 to 11 years, assessing a child-specific dynamic stretching programme against usual care.

Both studies use a two-arm, parallel-design, superiority randomized controlled trial methodology. Participants are ambulant children and adolescents with spastic cerebral palsy (bilateral or unilateral) classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I–III. Eligible participants must be able to complete assessment procedures and follow the exercise programme, with or without caregiver support.

In each study, participants are individually randomized (1:1) to receive either the intervention (strengthening in ROBUST or dynamic stretching in SPELL) or usual NHS care.

Together, these trials aim to strengthen the evidence base for effective, age-appropriate rehabilitation strategies to improve outcomes for young people with cerebral palsy.