School Children Get Virtual Visit From Premier League Stars

A Wakefield-based primary academy has teamed up with Premier League superstars, Leeds United FC, to give children a unique learning experience on World Book Day.

World Book Day, which was on 4th March, is a nationally recognised day where people can celebrate reading. 

Children at Outwood Primary Academy Ledger Lane were given a special treat to mark the day as part of an initiative from Leeds United and Wakefield Trinity Community Foundation to promote English & Literacy as part of a partnership parties.

On World Book Day, Leeds United’s Olly Casey and Stuart McKinstry took part in a special Zoom meeting with children from the Ledger Lane-based academy in which they discussed their favourite books.

Rachael Skirrow, Principal at the Ofsted-rated Outstanding Outwood Primary Academy Ledger Lane, said: “We were delighted to welcome Olly and Stuart to our academy, albeit virtually. 

“You could tell the children were really excited to discuss World Book Day with them and to not only share their favourite books but also discover new books from others.

“At Outwood, we believe in putting children first and doing all we can to support their development so they can fulfil their potential. For us, this goes beyond the classroom and opportunities like this are an example of us working with the wider community to provide memorable experiences for the children.”

As well as discussing their favourite books, the duo discussed the importance of reading and having hobbies away from the football pitch to help with their mental wellbeing. 

During the virtual Q&A, Jacob, a child at Outwood Primary Academy Ledger Lane, said: "It was really inspiring doing the session with the Leeds United players because it taught me how fun reading can be and how you can achieve your goals through reading.

"I'm a big Leeds United fan so it was shocking to actually talk to some of the players and I was a bit blown away by how nice they really were."

Luke Shale, the Head of Education and Training with Wakefield Community Trust, added: “As soon as the opportunity arose, the School Sport Partnership department were keen to be involved. This was a fantastic initiative that combined both sport and education while offering us the chance to celebrate World Book Day in the best possible way.

“The students and teachers were all really excited about the prospect of working with Leeds United to put this project on and a massive thank you to the two players for taking part in the session.”

Coaches from Leeds United’s official charity that work on the Premier League Primary Stars education team have been delivering exclusive sessions in schools throughout the week to mark World Book Day, which is the annual campaign that celebrates authors, illustrators, books, and the joy of reading.