In celebration of Anti-Bullying Week, Altham Primary School hosted an engaging workshop designed to instill the values of respect and kindness among its students. The event, led by Accrington Stanley coaches, highlighted the importance of treating others with dignity, appreciating differences, and fostering a supportive school environment.

The workshop used creative activities and interactive discussions to teach students how respect can transform their relationships and contribute to a more inclusive community.

Children explored the values of life, including compassion, integrity, and the courage to stand against bullying. Through this workshop, they learned how small acts of kindness could make a significant difference, both in their school and beyond.

One of the key messages of the workshop was the importance of being an upstander, not a bystander, when witnessing bullying. Students were empowered to speak up and support peers in need, fostering a sense of responsibility and shared respect.

Elle, the Premier League Primary Stars coordinator , shared an inspiring message: “Respect starts with understanding that every person deserves kindness and dignity. By teaching these values early, we empower young people to build stronger communities, both in school and in life.”

Last month we welcomed a record number of new students into our Football College! 37 students joined us to continue their studies with us after leaving high school, meaning we now have 64 students enrolled studying at our £4m state of the art sporting facility.

With what we offer, why would you not join us….

Our Football College provides students with the opportunity to combine their studies with a full-time football programme which replicates the life of a professional footballer. On the pitch our players train 4 times per week and compete in league fixtures on Wednesdays. They also benefit from games being recorded, performance analysis sessions, nutrition advice, gym programmes and Individual Development Plans to allow players to take their football to the next level. Students also receive free training kit worth up to £200!

In the classroom students gain an insight into various aspects of sport such as coaching, fitness training and health and wellbeing, whilst also giving them a chance to explore different career pathways in the sporting industry. A comprehensive Personal Development Programme (PDP) is also included to ensure the young people are equipped for their next steps after leaving us. Past students have gone on to Higher Education to study various subjects such as Sport, Business Management, Physiotherapy, PE teaching and Computer Science, with others gaining apprenticeships in trades, scholarships in the USA and one even gaining a professional

Accrington Stanley players, Dan Martin and Tyler Walton brought smiles and excitement to our football camp as the two first-team players made a special visit to the club’s holiday courses. The players not only answered questions and signed water bottles but also laced up their boots to join in with the fun-filled football sessions.

The visit kicked off with a quick question-and-answer session, where the youngsters had the chance to ask the players about their football journeys, daily training routines, and the highs and lows of professional football. The interactive session allowed the children to connect with the players on a personal level, and the advice given was heartfelt and encouraging.

After the Q&A, it was time for autographs. The players took their time chatting with each child as they signed Accrington Stanley water bottles. The excitement was palpable as they proudly held up their signed items, many of them already making plans to show them off at their next football practice.

One youngster said, “I’m never washing this bottle again! It’s so cool to have it signed by Accrington Stanley players!”

To the delight of everyone, the players joined in with the session taking part in mini games. The youngsters were thrilled to be sharing the pitch with professionals, and the players’ easy-going nature made them feel right at home.

With the players offering tips, encouragement, and the occasional cheeky tackle, the kids had the time of their lives. “It was amazing to play with them. They’re so good, but they still helped us and made it really fun,” said one excited participant after the session.

The holiday course coaches, who work hard to make the sessions fun and educational, were equally impressed with how the players interacted with the kids. “It’s fantastic for the children to see their role models up close and realize that they’re not so different from themselves. These visits really inspire them to keep working hard and enjoying the game,” Josh Cooper commented.

Our next Camps are this October half term, see you all there.

Accrington Stanley Community Trust has relaunched its official website, offering a fresh and modern platform for community engagement. The updated site features an improved user interface, making it easier for visitors to access information about the Trust’s wide range of programs and initiatives. From sports and education to health and social inclusion, the Trust plays a vital role in supporting the local community, and the revamped website aims to improve the visibility of these services.

The relaunch is part of the Trust’s ongoing commitment to enhancing accessibility and communication with fans and residents alike. With mobile-friendly design, streamlined navigation, and links to our booking system, the new site ensures that participants can easily sign up for events, classes, and activities.

The redesign reflects Accrington Stanley Community Trust’s dedication to community development and growth, emphasizing their mission to use sport as a vehicle for positive social change.