The funding, spread over three years, will enable the foundation to expand its Rugby Reading Champions programme in Lancashire. This partnership continues BAE Systems’ investment in community organisations and projects in the North West, which last year totalled more than half-a-million pounds.
“As a business in Lancashire, we have a duty to support the young people within our communities. We’re proud to be partnering with the Fylde Rugby Community Foundation and its Rugby Reading Champions programme, so more children can develop essential skills which will take them through their education and future careers. So much of the work we do at BAE Systems relies on excellent teamwork and communication, therefore we know how valuable these qualities are. The children supported through this programme will be able to benefit from what they’ve learned in the classroom and on the pitch for many years to come.”Gareth Edwards, Finance Director, BAE Systems Air
Last academic year, the programme was delivered in 15 primary schools across Blackpool and five primary schools in Fleetwood, delivering a one-hour literacy session and one-hour tag rugby session over the course of 10 weeks to 300 children in years 5 and 6.
As well as developing their reading ability, the programme strengthens children’s teamwork and communication skills, allowing them to build up their confidence while also enjoying the physical benefits of being involved in an active team sport with meaningful values.
"We are absolutely delighted to see the Rugby Reading Champions programme continue to grow and impact even more schools across the Fylde Coast. After the success we’ve seen over the past four years, it’s incredibly rewarding to see such tangible results. For example, in 2022/23, a group of 15 children from a primary school in Blackpool improved their reading age by a whole year, highlighting the power of this programme to make a real difference. The feedback from the children has been overwhelmingly positive, with 95% stating it encouraged them to read more books. With the support of BAE Systems, we’re excited to expand the programme, reaching even more young people and making a meaningful difference in the lives of children across the Fylde Coast.”Phill Mills, Foundation Manager, Fylde Rugby Community Foundation
The 2025 programme kicked off this month at Weeton St Michael’s school.
“The Rugby Reading Champions programme has been delivered in our school now for the past two years and it has played an essential role in encouraging children to read. The programme allows children who struggle with reading to take part and start reading for pleasure through the use of the sport-based books. We have seen an improvement in reading for pleasure, especially by boys as they need something that is going to motivate them to read; Rugby Reading Champions does this.”Emily Bickerstaff, Teacher, Weeton St Michael’s School
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