A SCHEME that uses football to inspire pupils in academic subjects has received the backing of one of Swindon’s MPs.

Justin Tomlinson has urged primary schools in North Swindon to the Premier League Primary Stars initiative in a bid to enhance children’s understanding and interest across the curriculum.

Premier League Primary Stars is open to all primary schools across England and Wales and allows teachers to access completely free teaching resource packs covering PE, English, Maths and PSHE for children aged 5-11.

Real life examples from football provide lesson content and are combined with videos and fun activities.

Justin, who is also chairman of the all-party Parliamentary group for sport, said: “Premier League Primary Stars is a fantastic initiative.

“I know from parents, teachers, and pupils that using these real life, alternative examples in PE, English, Maths and PSHE is incredibly helpful.

“I’m pleased that a significant number of our local primary schools have already signed up to take advantage of this fantastic initiative, and I hope that more will do so.”

Justin attended an event in Parliament focused on the programme, which draws upon the excitement of the Premier League and young people’s interest in football to help inspire children to learn, be active and develop important life skills.

More than 20 schools have already signed up in North Swindon, and Justin is encouraging all primary schools to make use of the free resources available to them.

Richard Scudamore, executive chairman of the Premier League, said: “The Premier League and our clubs are committed to using our reach and ability to inspire children to support them in their learning whether that be PE, PSHE or Maths and English.

“The need for and interest in Primary Stars has been huge and we have had an incredible response to the programme to date.

“With more slubs on board, we are committing even more resource to develop content and will continue to evolve and develop the programme to fit the needs of the teachers and pupils”.