Wigan Athletic is proud to launch an inspiring new Primary Schools Project, designed to connect local pupils and families with the Football Club

Introducing the 'From Classroom to Kick-Off' Primary Schools Project!
Latics is proud to launch an exciting Primary Schools initiative designed to connect local pupils and families with the Football Club
Contact Jonathan Meehan via j.meehan@wiganathletic.com for more information on how your school can get involved

Wigan Athletic is proud to launch 'From Classroom to Kick-Off!' – an exciting new Primary Schools initiative designed to connect local pupils and families with their Football Club through memorable experiences, both in the classroom and at the Brick Community Stadium.

The Wigan Athletic Primary Schools Project aims to create lasting memories for local children, build positive emotional connections with the Club, and inspire the next generation of Latics supporters to be part of the Wigan Athletic family. The project has been developed to help young people feel that Wigan Athletic is their Club – one that belongs at the heart of the community.

Each participating school begins the journey with an introductory meeting between the Schools Project Lead and the school contact, where together, they shape a bespoke plan to fit the needs of their pupils. From scheduling and accessibility to safeguarding and communication, every detail is designed to make sure every child can take part and enjoy the experience.

Before activities begin, pupils complete a short, child-friendly survey that captures how they currently feel about Wigan Athletic – how much they know about the Club, how excited they are about football, and how connected they feel to the team. This baseline information helps the Club understand the impact of the programme as it progresses.

The excitement then builds with a lively and interactive school assembly delivered by the Wigan Athletic Fan Engagement Town and the Club's world-famous mascot, Crusty the Pie. Pupils learn about the Club’s proud connection to the town of Wigan, how football brings the community together, and how they can play their part in the Club’s future.

Families are then invited to a dedicated Wigan Athletic matchday, with the chance to attend a home fixture for free through our new junior membership scheme, Crusty’s Crew. After the assembly, the Fan Engagement Team is on hand to meet parents and carers, answer questions, and hand out information about the match invitation, ensuring every family has the opportunity to get involved.

One of the most exciting parts of the programme is the special matchday experience at the Brick Community Stadium, where pupils, staff and their families receive exclusive tickets to a Wigan Athletic home fixture. Before kick-off, families can enjoy pre-match fun in the Family Zone, including games, music and entertainment, before joining thousands of other supporters inside the stadium to experience the magic of live football together. It’s an unforgettable day that builds pride, belonging, and a sense of being part of something bigger.

To build further on that excitement, pupils are later invited back to the stadium for a special behind-the-scenes experience day, including interactive activities, which allows them the chance to test their football skills and listen to a special message from Head Coach Ryan Lowe.

Throughout the visit, children take part in a carousel of hands-on activities designed to bring the Club to life – from energetic games in the Family Zone, to a guided tour of the stadium, exploring areas such as the dressing rooms, hospitality lounges, and control room.

Pupils learn about the Club’s proud history through the contributions of the Wigan Athletic Heritage Project, before testing their football skills in a fun freestyle session with professional performer Molly Saunt in Tics, Tricks and Flicks. The day rounds off with the Media Challenge, where pupils take on the role of journalists in a mock press conference, asking questions and discovering the buzz of football media.

The project has already made a big impression in local schools. Mrs Green from Holy Family, Platt Bridge, said:

“The next day some children asked if it was trip day again because they wanted to come straight back. The variety of activities meant there was something for everyone and the time was long enough to enjoy each activity but not so long that they got bored. It didn’t feel rushed at all and we had plenty of time for dinner. Staff were understanding of children with behaviour issues and it was great that there was the option of time out for children that were overwhelmed. It was great to have Whelan’s as a base to leave our things as well. Absolutely great day!”

The 'From Classroom to Kick-Off!' project marks the beginning of an ambitious new chapter for Wigan Athletic’s engagement with primary schools across the borough. Plans are already in place to extend the programme further, bringing even more children and families closer to the Club they call their own.

For schools already registered, Jonathan Meehan will be in touch to arrange suitable dates for participation. Schools interested in getting involved can contact Jonathan at j.meehan@wiganathletic.com for more information.

Together, From Classroom to Kick-Off! is inspiring the next generation of Latics fans – building memories, pride, and a lifelong connection between Wigan Athletic and its community.

Introducing the 'From Classroom to Kick-Off' Primary Schools Project!