'Fantastic’ youth project

A project encouraging under-achieving youngsters from three local schools gives them the chance of free football lessons if they attend after school revision and homework classes.

Pupils from Wardle High School, Heywood Community High School and Falinge High School are currently working with Rochdale AFC and Football and Schools Together (FAST) which is a scheme based at Manchester Metropolitan University and funded by the Football Foundation.

FAST is a project which works with pupils from Years 8-11 and aims to boost pupil’s attainment and aspirations by working together with local secondary schools. It currently works with over 50 schools throughout England and holds junior events at local football clubs.

As part of the project, pupils’ from the three local schools and Meanwood Primary School took part in a Junior Football Organiser Event (JFO) which comprised of a day of theory and practical tests for the young players.

Lee Murphy, Director of Interactive Sports, delivered the day at the Club supported by Keith Hick, Head of Football in the Community. Mr Murphy observed that there was ‘real potential’ in the boys who had taken part.

Catherine Campbell, Project Manager, FAST said: “Pupils from Wardle and Heywood have been given a fantastic opportunity to take the JFO award. Not only is it a qualification they can build on, the day has enabled them to practice their leadership and communication skills which will be invaluable to them in the future. All the boys have been enthusiastic about the event and given 100% to the day.”

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen also attended and said: “FAST is a fantastic project which really aims to get youngsters to stay in school and learn, but also rewards them with free football sessions. I think this is a brilliant incentive and I am heartened to know that local football clubs such as Rochdale are getting involved which shows how committed they are to this project.

"It’s been a fantastic day and some of the youngsters are showing some real potential and may even get to progress and have a professional career because of this scheme.”