News

Bombers take a lead on literacy

Thursday, 14 May 2009
Staff writers for essendonfc.com.au
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Essendon Football Club officially launched its Literacy Program at the Essendon Primary School today. The ground breaking program – believed to be first of its kind in Australia – was designed in partnership with The Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation.

The program involves appropriately trained players engaging in classroom activities. There is also an on-line component to the program and a “purpose-built” novel – Pencil O’Reilly: Bush Champion – that has been written to compliment the program objectives.

“Literacy underpins education and as a Club we are pleased to be able to take a lead on an issue that is so important,” Essendon general manager media and Community Simon Matthews said.

“We believe this program has the capacity to make a difference through the use of role models and the development of partnerships with key organisations such as the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation and the Slattery Media Group.

“We are really pleased that we have been able to produce a novel to compliment this program. It is aimed at Grade 3 and four students but will also be of benefit to advanced readers at a younger age or older reluctant readers.”

Mary-Ruth Mendel, ALNF Founder, said the program had wonderful potential to work as a pilot for other elite sporting organisations.

“ALNF is very excited to be working in partnership with Essendon Football Club on such a worthwhile initiative. Literacy and numeracy skills are a critical element in enabling young people to fulfil their dreams” she said.

“The Essendon Literacy Program is a wonderful example of how football players can act as role models by promoting an understanding that good athletic skills should be combined with strong literacy skills to ensure success as an athlete.”

Pencil O’Reilly: Bush Champion can be purchased from the Bomber Shop and all major bookstores nationally for $14.95. Click here to purchase online today.

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