Pupils learn to read the game
Youngsters taking part in a sporting initiative have been writing to former Shrewsbury Town goalkeeper Joe Hart to persuade the England goalie to come back to the county club.
Over the next six weeks, members of Shrewsbury Town's Football in the Community team will be coming to St Mary's C of E Primary School in Shawbury to work with children on the Reading the Game initiative. It encourages youngsters to read sports-based literature and take part in practical skills workshops.
Christian Sharp, class teacher, said: "Each week the children will have an English lesson based around a sporting theme and then after a break they will have a football coaching session.
"This week the children had to write a letter to Manchester City and England goalkeeper Joe Hart to persuade him to come back to Shrewsbury Town Football Club. Next week they will be creating a poster based around the Respect campaign. The FA's Respect programme is about ensuring a safe, positive environment in which to play the football.
"These English sessions are then followed by a coaching lesson. It has been really good so far – this is their second session out of six. It has really motivated the children to get into literacy more.
"Also we have been studying female and male football stars to show both can get involved. I would recommend the programme for any school to take part."
Neil Homer, education project leader, said: "I am very proud of the pupils for the improvements they have made."
