An ex-professional footballer turned author has delivered literacy workshops to key stage three students at Outwood Academy Ormesby. 

Seth Burkett, who previously played professional football in Brazil and Sri Lanka, now works as a full-time author, combining his writing with school visits and workshops in efforts to promote a love of literacy among young people.

His visit to Outwood Academy Ormesby began with a personal development session based on his experiences during his football career and living in different countries before moving into reading and writing workshops for students aged 11-14. The workshops tasked students to think creatively and produce a marketing campaign for football boots. Each campaign required the creation of a brand, slogan, an advert, a marketing speech and the planning of an event launch.

One student who participated, said:

“I really enjoyed the workshop and the tasks. I liked how creative it was.”

Another added:

“He was amazing. I loved it all.”

The session included information on how Seth, who had always been dedicated to his football career, decided to become an author; explaining that although writing was never his natural talent, he had grown to love books and reading. The first book he wrote, The Boy in Brazil, details his season spent playing football in Sorriso and was later shortlisted for Football Book of the Year at the 2016 British Sports Book Awards.

Reflecting on the session, Seth said:

“I had a great day at Outwood Academy Ormesby. I enjoyed the warm welcome; the pupils are a credit to the school. I’d love to come back in the future to deliver more workshops.”

Amy Lewis, Progress Lead for English at the academy, added:

“It was a very rewarding experience to see students confidently express themselves freely, come out of their shells and participate in activities which they would normally shy away from in their usual lessons. Many students were inspired and as the week went on students were loaning and seeking out books on football, which they would usually be reluctant to do. 

“I love events like this and it makes me feel very proud to have made such a positive impact on the students' development and make a difference.”