Leeds United duo Ilia Gruev and Daniel James visited Our Lady’s Primary School for an equality, diversity and inclusion workshop recently delivered by the Leeds United Foundation.

The Premier League Primary Stars session, provided as part of the Foundation’s LQBTQ+ History Month-related activities during February, featured numerous football-related scenarios which Year 5 pupils solved with help and advice from the two first teamers in attendance, before they took part in a short Q&A with the youngsters.

The children were asked how they could be allies and support others, along with what conversations they could have to get the best outcome from different situations. Concerns over nutrition, a star player falling out with the manager, and a valuable player handing in a transfer request were the hypothetical scenarios provided, with the students asked to think about the importance of including everyone, no matter the race, gender, sexuality or cultural background of a person.

After the session, Gruev said: “We visited this school here, it was really nice. We had a chat with the kids and did the group work together. Some really good ideas from them and then some questions and answers. It was really nice, we had a really good feeling during the visit, and there are some really smart kids here.”

“I thought the children had great answers today,” James added. “It's so important as you're growing up, learning about equality, diversity and inclusion. Everyone has their differences, but it's about coming together, really supporting people, it was nice to hear.”

Angus Hall, Premier League Primary Stars Co-Ordinator at the the club's official charity said: “Being able to give the kids an opportunity where they can be inspired by professional athletes from a performance-led background, it's huge for them. We want them to come away feeling more ambitious and hopefully days like this will be long-lasting in their memory."

Premier League Primary Stars uses the positive power of Leeds United to inspire and engage children aged 5 to 11 both in the classroom and on the sports field, to help them develop important life skills, look after their wellbeing and be active.

For further information on the incredible work being done around education through the Leeds United Foundation, please contact [email protected].