School children spend extra time learning

Foundation of Light celebrated National Nursery Rhyme Week by inviting over 180 children from primary schools across Sunderland and South Tyneside to the Beacon of Light. Youngsters from Reception classes in St James’, East Boldon Infants, Jarrow Cross, Southwick and Sunningdale primary schools took part in a carousel of activities linking literacy and nursery rhymes to sport, encouraging children to enjoy reading more and increase educational attainment. Pupils were also joined by members of the EFL Trust’s Extra Time Hub, a programme aimed at tackling social isolation in the over 55’s, who joined in with dance and drama.

It has been a fun filled day with children and adults taking part in lots of enjoyable activities.  It has been lovely to see how the older and younger generations came together to help each other and have fun.  Nursery rhymes play an important role in childhood development, helping to progress communication, physical and social skills.

Danielle Chapman Primary Stars Coordinator

Today’s activity forms part of the Premier League Primary Stars - a national curriculum linked education programme using the appeal of the Premier League and League clubs to inspire children to learn, be active and develop important life skills. Danielle explained how important the Premier League Primary Stars programme is to the local community, “The programme uses the appeal of the football clubs to inspire children to learn, be active and develop important life skills whilst raising aspirations.”