Rochdale AFC Community Trust is celebrating five years of the Premier League Primary Stars schools' programme this week!
Launched in 2017 and available to every primary school in England and Wales, Premier League Primary Stars uses the appeal of professional football clubs to support pupils in the classroom, the playground and on the sports field.
Currently 105 professional football clubs from across the leagues, including Rochdale Football Club, run in-classroom Premier League Primary Stars sessions in local schools.
To celebrate, clubs have nominated a ‘Superstar’ – a young person or teacher who has inspired others through their dedication to the programme, enthusiasm and own personal development.
Rochdale AFC Community Trust has chosen Mrs Bernadette Hickman, a teacher at St Thomas More RC Primary School in Middleton, as their ‘Superstar’.
Graham Hicks, the Community Trust’s Premier League Primary Stars Coordinator, explains why: “Bernadette is a true Superstar and is so passionate about PE.
“We have been working at St Thomas More for a number of years now but this wouldn’t have been possible without the drive from Bernie herself.
“Over that period, we have worked with every teacher and pupil in the school developing PE skills or providing learning and fun through our activities.
“Bernie has been fantastic to work with, delivering excellent PE sessions to her class whilst we work together to improve all PE aspects at their school.”
Each ‘Superstar’, including Mrs Hickman, will receive a Nike Strike football, thanks to Premier League partner Nike, and a framed, limited-edition five-year anniversary illustration, created by graphic designer and digital illustrator Zem Clarke.
Congratulations, Mrs Hickman!