...As taught by Club Doncaster Foundation.
Thousands of children will learn about the importance of Parliament and democracy thanks to an innovative project run by Club Doncaster with The Football League Trust in partnership with Parliament’s Education Service.With the other professional Football clubs in Yorkshire, Club Doncaster will use the power of football to go into schools to educate children about the work of Parliament and its relevance to them.
The programme targets both primary and secondary schools and will reach over 14,000 children over the next six months. The club’s community Trust will visit schools to talk to students about Parliament, politics and democracy through the themes of gamesmanship, rule-making and active citizenship.
Mike Evans, Director of Operations at the Football League Trust, commented: “It’s not immediately obvious why football is teaching children about the democratic process. However, football clubs are based at the heart of their communities and the power of the club badge within that community means children are often prepared to listen when coaches and players visit schools.”
Liam Scully, Club Doncaster CEO, said: “Especially in an election year it is vitally important that children understand the importance of a democratic process and why it is relevant to them. This is why we are delighted to be working with Parliament’s Education Service to get this message across.”
Dr Emma-Jane Watchorn, Head of Education at the Houses of Parliament, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with the Football League Trust in this exciting new project. Football provides a great way to help young people learn about decision-making, justice and fair play – all of which relate to the democratic process. As election fever hits the country, this is a great way – and a great time – to get students involved and debating the issues that matter to them.”