Sky Blues duo help kick off an afternoon of learning and literacy at Henley Green Primary School
City stars Joe Murphy and Andy Webster helped kick off an afternoon of learning and literacy classes at a city school after taking part in story time.
The pair teamed up with Henley Green Primary School in the city to help encourage reception children to engage with reading and develop key skills.
More than 40 children along with a number of dads, lads and granddads attended the story-time event where goalkeeper Murphy and defender Webster recited the tales of the ‘Three Little Pigs’ and ‘Man on the Moon’.
The aim was for a team talk from the players to help inspire pupils to take an active interest in more reading activities, both in school and at home, in order to build on their literacy, language and communication skills.
But the tips didn’t stop in the classroom as the children took to the pitch to receive a footballing lesson too.
Murphy said: “Andy and I both have kids of our own so we know from experience how important it is that youngsters are encouraged to take an interest in reading and writing.
“Like many things it starts at home, and the more you can get the kids to be interested in, and enjoy, reading, writing and learning in general, then the easier it will be for them in the classroom and beyond.
“It was great to get out into the city and speak to young fans and their families. Everyone seemed to really enjoy the day and hopefully we will have helped to spark an interest in reading within some of them.”
Stephanie Wade, from Henley Green Primary school, felt the visit from the players had helped to inspire the youngsters.
Stephanie said: “The visit from the CCFC players has kick-started a real excitement about reading for our youngest children.
“It has also provided an opportunity for our dads, lads and granddads to pick up some tips and tricks both in football and most importantly in reading with their young children.”
David Busst, from the club’s registered charity Sky Blues in the Community, was also in attendance to strengthen links with the school.
Stacie McDermott, marketing manager at Coventry City, said: “As a club we like to engage with the local community and this seemed like a great way to do so, while also supporting a key message.
“Young fans in particular really look up to the players and if they are encouraging the kids to take a more active interest in reading and writing, it comes with added weight, so they really sit up and take notice. The day was a great success.”