MBNA Tackling Numbers is a rugby-themed programme which aims to teach schoolchildren the importance of number skills in everyday life.
Developed and delivered by Premiership Rugby in partnership with MBNA, the programme will be delivered by Tigers community coaches through classroom sessions and practical number-based rugby games.
More than 30 teachers from city primary schools in Leicester attended the launch event and a teacher training session in the European Suite at Welford Road.
Scott Clarke, Tigers community manager, said: “We are delighted to be running the MBNA Tackling Numbers programme.
“It was great to see the level of support from teachers, who gave up their free time to attend the launch evening and session and Welford Road.
“Rugby is a fantastic way of getting young people engaged with maths and numeracy. It’s great fun and a brilliant way of tying the classroom to the sports pitch.
“Maths and financial literacy are so important and Tackling Numbers helps bring them to life.”
The launched marked the beginning of the Tackling Numbers campaign, delivered by Chester-based MBNA, Europe’s largest credit card provider, Premiership Rugby and Premiership Rugby’s 12 clubs. It is anticipated to reach more than 800 primary schools in England over the next three years.
Ian O’Doherty, Europe Card executive for Bank of America Europe Card Services, which operates the MBNA brand, said: “We must equip young people with the knowledge and tools to help them manage their money in the future – and how better to do that than to engage them in mathematics in a practical and enjoyable way, with some of the starts of English rugby.
“We hope this programme provides the foundation for good numeracy skills in adulthood and a memorable experience which last the a lifetime.”
Wayne Morris, head of community and Premiership Rugby, said: “The Tackling Numbers programme utilises the power of rugby to promote the understanding and learning of numeracy in a fun and enjoyable way. The classroom sessions are supported by practical PE sessions that unite and active mind with an active body.”
Tigers will run the programme, which is aimed at Year 4 pupils, over three seasons and are looking for more city schools in Leicester to take part.
To register an interest or for more information, contact Tigers rugby development officer Jamie Smyth on 0844 856 1880 or email [email protected]
