Sunderland star Andy Reid steps up to the plate

Black Cat Andy Reid visited youngsters at Castletown Community Primary School as part of a new partnership between Sunderland AFC Foundation and the Esh Charitable Trust.

The midfielder met with young people taking part in the ‘Step Up’ programme, ran by the football club’s official charity.

The aim of the project was to aid the successful transition of young people between primary and secondary school and divert them from potential anti-social behaviour.  The scheme offered advice on healthy lifestyle choices and provided positive activities for pupils.

In partnership with the Esh Charitable Trust, SAFC Foundation delivered sessions that concentrate on the critical transition between schools, introducing young people from different primary schools that will all attend the same secondary school.

Activities focused on raising their confidence and team building, with pupils being encouraged to ‘buddy up’ with each other, so they have a friendly face when they make the big move to secondary school.

Andy joined the class of 25 pupils in their final session of the six-week course, where they discussed peer pressure and taking part in team building games.
 
Brian Manning from the Esh Charitable Trust said: “Together SAFC Foundation and the Esh Charitable Trust are passionate about continuing to progress and develop in the region in which we live, work and play.”
 
SAFC Foundation Chief Executive, Lesley Spuhler added: “We are delighted to have the Esh Charitable Trust supporting our Step Up programme.  The Foundation works with over 30,000 young people and their families every year. 

“To have the backing of such a high profile organisation is vital for us to continue delivering our programmes to schools and organisations throughout the North East.”