Sunderland’s longest serving player Lynden Gooch joined teachers at the Beacon of Light as part of a special Schools Networking Breakfast.
The event demonstrated Foundation of Light’s commitment to lifelong learning as headteachers and deputy headteachers alike gained insight into some of the programmes the Foundation can support primary and secondary schools with.
Literacy Interventions, Maths Interventions, PSHE Sessions, Teacher CPD and Family Learning were also discussed – allowing schools to see the full provisions on offer.
A comprehensive tour of the Beacon followed the networking event, which involved a journey of the building’s Arriva World of Work Zone.
Gooch took the time to engage with headteachers and deputy’s, discussing the Foundation’s life-changing work as well as reminiscing about the previous programmes he had supported.
The USA international has been an important figure for the Foundation since his move across the pond, and the 2021 Wembley hero admits it’s key he and his fellow teammates continue to get involved. He said: “It’s massive. Especially for us players to come and see what the Foundation are doing.
“They do a lot of great things for the community, not just around the city but the North East in general.”
As well as an avid supporter of the Foundation, Gooch is a regular visit to the Beacon. “It’s a fantastic facility for people to come and use and it’s great for all the kids growing up now.
“I come here quite a bit and it’s a great place to be. My kids play football here every week in the Indoor Barn.”
Sunderland AFC will dedicate its upcoming game against Hull City at the Stadium of Light to the Foundation of Light.
The Good Friday clash will support our Small Change Big Difference campaign and showcase the work of the charity as we aim to raise vital funds to support families, who are increasingly feeling the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and rising energy costs.
Gooch believes the game against The Tigers presents the perfect opportunity for the players to demonstrate their support. “It’s big for us, especially for me as I’ve lived in the city the whole time I’ve been at Sunderland.
“The Foundation is a big part of everything that the city does so it means a lot personally me to as well.”
To find out more about our school programmes email Danielle.chapman@foundationoflight.co.uk.
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