Seven players from the Men’s Under-18’s and Women’s Development Squads, including Micah Hamilton and Tai Sodje, took time out to virtually visit CITC’s Premier League Primary Stars sessions, where they discussed their favourite books.
Youngsters from Alma Park, Mauldeth Road and St. Wilfrid’s were able to hear about how the players enjoy the benefits of reading, as well as take part in a Q&A and read aloud session.
The visits formed part of CITC’s extensive World Book Day activities, which include a donation of 400 free books across eight different schools.
In Manchester, one out of 11 children have no books of their own at home. In partnership with The National Literacy Trust and the Premier League, CITC has been able to offer 50 free books per school, which will be used to support pupil’s in their literacy development.
Commenting on the donation, one pupil from Alma Park said: “The books mean so much because reading helps your mind a lot, especially when you can’t concentrate. So, it means a lot, thank you!”
Sherie Rogers, a teacher from Mauldeth Road, added: “Many thanks for your World Book Day visit, we really appreciated the time and care which you put into your workshop. It was also lovely for the children to interact with the Academy players.
“The children were delighted to receive a book each to take home, and we will be distributing the remaining books amongst the classes for everyone to enjoy!”
Tai Sodje from the Academy’s U18’s said: “I thought the World Book Day visit was really good. I enjoyed talking to the children about my favourite book as well as my experiences in football up to now. The questions from the children were great and they were really energetic.”
Women’s Development Squad’s Betty Hall added: “I really enjoyed seeing how excited the children were about their favourite books and the hard work and effort that had gone into their own book reviews. I really enoyed telling them about my favourite book too!”
CITC has delivered the Premier League Primary Stars programme in schools across Greater Manchester since 2016, with the aim of supporting pupils and teachers to lead healthier, more active lives.
CITC coaches deliver a full day each week of the academic year across all schools.
Sessions include National Curriculum PE lessons, extra-curricular activities, PSHE lessons, English and Maths workshops, targeted interventions and collapsed curriculum days.
For more information about City in the Community’s work, visit: www.mancity.com/community.
For more information about World Book Day, visit: www.worldbookday.com.
