The Sheffield & Hallamshire County F.A. have delivered football sessions in schools throughout South Yorkshire to almost 15,000 children in the last year
Pete Cooper, the Schools Co-ordinator for the County F.A. visits almost three different schools per day and delivers a football session appropriate for the children.
The County F.A. delivers football session in primary, secondary and special needs schools across the region. Football Programmes in schools are not only a way of introducing children to the game in a fun way; they can also help them learn.
There is no question about the enthusiasm young people have for football. Capturing this enthusiasm through a structured football programme can have benefits far beyond the football pitch.
Brian Peck, Head of Football development for the County F.A. said “The County F.A offers a range of resources and programmes to develop football at all levels of the education ladder. We not only deliver football sessions to children but provide additional support in the way of teacher training and help with supplying equipment, assisting with funding bids and the F.A. teacher training course – TOPS. Extensive training and support is available for the development of football in all schools and especially for those children in mainstream schools with Special Educational Needs.”
In Athlestane School, in Doncaster, last year received the regional award for the County F.A. Charter Standard Special School., A lunchtime session takes place every Monday, plus a session in the children’s physical education class. Mr John Wallbank, the Head of P.E for Athlestane said
“Pete is great with the children and we encourage them to take part in all sports. Pete’s delivery of football and patience with the children is a credit to County F.A. We are delighted with the football programme as we are keen to promote exercise, having fun and team building amongst the children.”
Mrs Sheard, the Headteacher at Walkley School, said “The County F.A. has been coming here for years, providing football sessions for the children. We feel it is important that we encourage the children to play sport and take exercise. Both the girls and boys look forward to the football sessions”
Mrs Irene Parker, the Headteacher at Beigton Junior and Infant School said “The children just love the football sessions, it gives them an opportunity to run around! Pete teaches them the basic football skills that will help them with the game in the future.”
The County F.A.’s football programme in schools has gone from strength the strength over the last two years. Peter Cooper is the schools co-ordinator and now employs two other qualified football coaches to visit additional schools who want football sessions as an additional activity within the school.
If you are interested in having the County F.A. come to your school then please contact Marc Birkett or Brian Peck on 0114 2414 992.