Pupils from primary schools across Manchester have enjoyed football-themed author events this week, as part of a project funded by the SHINE Trust.
Three events at the city’s top football venues used the motivational power of sport to inspire hundreds of pupils to enjoy reading.
- The National Football Museum
On Wednesday 17 October, 122 pupils from four schools enjoyed a workshop with author Matt Oldfield and a tour of the museum.
- Manchester United Football Club
On Thursday 18 October, 190 pupils from six schools took part in a session with author Alan Gibbons, a museum quiz and a football skills activity.
- Manchester City Football Club
On Thursday 18 October, 184 pupils from six schools enjoyed an event with poet Paul Cookson, a tour of the Etihad Stadium and a fun physical activity.
The events were the culmination of a football literacy project, which was delivered by the National Literacy Trust in support of the Read Manchester campaign.
Earlier this year, teachers across Greater Manchester took part in training sessions which helped them to deliver sports-related literacy programmes (including Premier League Primary Stars) with their pupils and explored issues around boys’ literacy. Participating schools also received a box of brand new books.
Tim Judge, Senior Programme Manager at the National Literacy Trust said:
“We know from years of experience that using the motivational power of football can lead to a real uplift in children’s reading, particularly for boys and struggling readers. Through our project with the SHINE foundation, we’re delighted to have inspired hundreds of pupils through events at exciting venues, and empowered teachers to bring football into the classroom.”
Read Manchester is a campaign from the National Literacy Trust and Manchester City Council to promote reading in communities across the city to help raise literacy levels.