The Ogden Trust funds new 'Rochdale Rockets' physics programme at Rochdale AFC

Rochdale AFC Community Trust has announced the launch of the Rochdale Rockets STEM Programme, thanks to funding from the Ogden Trust. This initiative aims to inspire young minds in the community through engaging physics education intertwined with the excitement of football.

The Rochdale Rockets programme will provide primary school students with hands-on learning experiences that connect physics concepts to the world of sports, particularly football.

Through interactive workshops, demonstrations, and practical projects, participants will explore the physics behind the game, including topics such as motion, forces, and energy transfer.

Using best practice resources and delivery models from across the football network, children will be able to get hands on with resources and technology that will hopefully inspire them to think about careers in STEM industries.

"We are thrilled to collaborate with Rochdale AFC to help bring this exciting and valuable STEM programme to life," said Clare Harvey, chief executive of the Ogden Trust.

"We want all young people to see that physics can be for them and to understand where physics can take them. The Rochdale Rockets project brings together hands-on physics learning and sport to deliver the fundamentals of a subject that can open doors to so many future career opportunities."

The Ogden Trust is a registered charity that aims to increase the uptake of physics for all at post-16, particularly for those from under-represented groups.

Rochdale AFC Community Trust, the award-winning charity of Rochdale AFC, is equally excited about this partnership.

"We believe that education is key to the development of our community," said Ryan Bradley, community director. "The Rochdale Rockets programme aligns perfectly with our alternative provision offer and we are thankful to the Ogden Trust for investing in this project."

The programme, which is a pilot for bigger collaborations between the two organisations, has seen students from St Peter's Primary School in Middleton attend the Study Centre at the Crown Oil Arena.

By blending education with sport, the Rochdale Rockets programme seeks to foster a love for science and encourage students to consider careers in STEM fields.

The programme will be constantly adapted through feedback from course staff, partners schools and curriculum experts at the Ogden Trust with further cohorts planned in the New Year, particularly targeting students who require an alternative approach to learning that is offered in a mainstream school setting.

For more information about the Rochdale Rockets physics programme and how to get involved, please contact Rochdale AFC Community Trust education & employability manager Scott Webster: scott.webster@rochdaleafc.co.uk

The Ogden Trust supports physics education and engagement for all young people (4-18), particularly those in under-represented groups. The trust supports schools, teachers, projects and programmes that are committed to enhancing physics teaching and learning.