The Premier League is celebrating five years of its schools’ programme, Premier League Primary Stars.
Launched in 2017 and available to every primary school in England and Wales, Premier League Primary Stars uses the appeal of the Premier League and professional football clubs to support pupils in the classroom, the playground and on the sports field.
To celebrate, clubs nominated a ‘Superstar’ – a young person or teacher who has inspired others through their dedication to the programme, enthusiasm and own personal development.
One person who has benefitted from their involvement in the programme is Leon, of Easington CofE Primary School, who has been named as a ‘Superstar’ by the Foundation of Light as part of the programme’s five-year anniversary celebrations.
Leon, who has been involved with the Foundation's Premier League Primary Stars programme for two years said: "I can't believe that you (Foundation of Light) had so much confidence in me. I’m so glad. Thank you."
Foundation of Light began its Premier League Primary Stars delivery in 2017 and just this year alone, has supported 4,390 young people, visiting 58 local schools.
Currently 105 professional football clubs from across the leagues run in-classroom Premier League Primary Stars sessions in local schools. More than 58,000 teachers have signed up to access free online national curriculum-linked resources.
Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: “We launched Premier League Primary Stars five years ago to support teachers and use the power and popularity of football to inspire children in the classroom and on the sports field.
“Clubs do fantastic work to support children’s learning and we are very proud that this national education programme now engages more than 18,500 primary schools in England and Wales.
“Congratulations to all those who have been recognised as a Premier League Primary Stars Superstar, as part of the five-year anniversary celebrations, and thank you to all those involved in the programme over the years.”
The Premier League funds Premier League Primary Stars and other community programmes through its £100m investment per season in community facilities and community and education programmes. This is the biggest voluntary contribution to communities and other good causes of any football league in the world.
Please visit www.premierleague.com for more information.