Children at Stockton school raise funds with former Lioness
Schools North East is delighted to highlight the inspiring work taking place at Rosebrook Primary School in Stockton-on-Tees, where pupils recently teamed up with former England women’s international footballer Jess Clarke to raise vital funds for their school.
Jess, who won over 50 caps for the Lionesses and scored 11 goals, was guest of honour at the event and joined pupils for a sponsored fitness circuit that raised over £2,000.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “Events like this show the powerful role schools can play in inspiring young people, combining fundraising, physical activity, and personal development. Meeting someone like Jess Clarke gives children real-life role models and reminds them that with dedication and passion, anything is possible.
“We encourage schools across the North East to create similar opportunities for their pupils to learn, grow and be inspired.”
Promoting healthy lifestyles and inspiration
Jess Clarke, a member of the 2011 Women’s World Cup squad and former Liverpool, Notts County, Sheffield United, and Durham player, was representing Activekids UK, a national organisation set up to inspire children to be more active and to promote both physical and mental wellbeing.
During her visit, Jess also spoke to pupils in assembly about healthy eating, keeping fit, and the importance of mental wellbeing, sharing the story of her own football journey along the way.
Leanne Todd, Head Teacher of Rosebrook Primary School, said: “The event was a huge success and provided an opportunity for our children to meet a real-life Lioness. Jess Clarke worked with all of the children in school and has hopefully inspired the next generation of young footballers and possibly another Lioness. The children were so excited to meet her and had a fabulous day!
“We would like to thank all of our families that helped raise a phenomenal amount of money. The money raised was split with Activekids UK and £1080 will go towards the further development of our outdoor area and playground.”
Andy Brown OBE, CEO of Ad Astra Academy Trust, added: “It’s fantastic to have such a high-profile former Lioness visiting one of our schools. Jess Clarke has achieved at the highest level in women’s football, and I am sure her story will help inspire our young children at Rosebrook to aim high and succeed in life.”
Impact across the region
Rosebrook Primary is home to over 400 pupils aged two to 11 and is one of ten schools in the Ad Astra Academy Trust, alongside Crooksbarn in Stockton-on-Tees; Barnard Grove, Brougham, West Park, and West View in Hartlepool; Ayresome and Sunnyside in Middlesbrough; and Deaf Hill and Kelloe in Durham.
With events like this, Schools North East is proud to celebrate the creativity, energy, and ambition of young people and the schools that support them across the region.