LLinE Lifelong Learning in Europe

Adult learning for football fans in the UK

Combining special interest with improving other skills is an old and effective method. In the UK, adult literacy, language and numeracy skills are tackled in a new initiative created by ten premier league and football league clubs and the government.

The target group are football fans. The project aims at improving these skills through activities with the sport theme. Literacy is taught by analysing commentary or creating match reports, maths by comprehending transfer fees.

Manchester United, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Everton, Charlton Athletic, Wigan Athletic, and football league teams, Leicester City, Brighton and Hove Albion, Norwich City and Bristol City are all supporting the initiative.

– We want to use the popularity of football to encourage adults to improve their skills and transform their lives both at home and at work. Although over one and a quarter million people have returned to learning and gained a qualification under our Skills for Life campaign, there are still many more people who could benefit, Skills Minister Phil Hope says.

The initial action for participation has been made easy. There is a service phone that people can call to take part in a free adult literacy or numeracy course, 0800 100 900 to register.

Skills for Life Quality Initiative
http://www.sflqi.org.uk/