Newcastle United star Joelinton paid a special visit to meet primary school children boosting their maths skills with Newcastle United Foundation.

Year 4 pupils from Westgate Hill Primary Academy, in Newcastle’s West End, experienced a school day like no other as their hero was introduced to their lesson being held in the Foundation’s new community hub, NUCASTLE, powered by Newcastle Building Society.

In NUCASTLE’s specialist science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) room, Joelinton joined children enjoying a Financial Football taster lesson delivered by Foundation staff.

Using the popularity and profile of Newcastle United, the Foundation uses vital funding and support from Premier League Primary Stars and Liontrust to give hundreds of schoolchildren self-confidence in using mathematics in day-to-day life through a head start in financial education.

Joelinton provided the perfect assist for Foundation staff by sharing his insight on the importance of teamwork, resilience and working hard every day – whether in the classroom, at home or on the football pitch.

Steve Beharall, Head of Newcastle United Foundation, said: “We aim to inspire everyone we support and to give them the tools and confidence they need to achieve whatever they want to in life.

“Joelinton is a role model for the next generation who can see what can be achieved through resilience and hard work. We’re sure young people supported by the Foundation at NUCASTLE had an unforgettable experience meeting their Newcastle United hero in the classroom.”

Following the success of the long-running Financial Football numeracy programme among Year 5 and Year 6 pupils across the North East, Newcastle United Foundation developed the Key Stage 2 initiative to introduce Year 4 pupils to problem-solving through football-based puzzles.

Working in pairs, the Westgate Hill Primary pupils worked through their maths booklet produced in partnership with Liontrust asset management company during their session at NUCASTLE.

Simon Hildrey, Chief Marketing Officer at Liontrust, said: “It is wonderful for the pupils to have had the chance to demonstrate the Financial Football numeracy programme to Newcastle United players.

“The programme is having a significant impact through improving pupils’ abilities to solve money focused questions, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and statistics.

“Liontrust is also proud to be supporting NUCASTLE. The Liontrust classroom will aid Newcastle United Foundation’s work to support all members of the local community.”

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