SCHOOLS across Leigh are being invited to use the power of sport and the upcoming Rugby League World Cup 2021 to help tackle bullying and discrimination.

The national social care charity Community Integrated Care has teamed up with the sport of rugby league to create ‘On The Same Team’.

This free primary school education programme that gives primary schools easy to implement and inspirational resources to help promote positive attitudes in their children.

On The Same Team supports schools to positively challenge anti-social behaviour and bullying, achieving an impact in their classrooms and in the community too.

The programme offers primary school children inspirational lessons about kindness, inclusion, and respect, helping to tackle prejudice before it is formed.

They learn from incredible people disabled people who have overcome barriers and are living their dreams, and hear how rugby league stars work as a team to support each other.

In doing so, the programme supports young people to see beyond stereotypes and step into the shoes of other people.

The campaign has been designed by Community Integrated Care, with the support experienced teachers and headteachers.

Teachers and schools that register for the resource at www.TheSameTeam.co.uk will receive a free key stage 1 + 2 education pack, including lesson plans, inspirational videos and class challenges.

These resources are directly linked to the English National Curriculum primary school years and are suitable for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

They support the school curriculum themes of Self-Esteem, Behaviour, Health and Wellbeing. 'British Values', Mutual Respect, Tolerance, Communities, Equality and Diversity.

Each school will also receive certificates for their learners and have the chance to win a suite of prizes including tickets to games, visits from rugby league stars, PE equipment and signed Rugby League World Cup 2021 merchandise.

John Hughes, Director Of Partnerships and Communities at Community Integrated Care, said: “On The Same team supports learners to grow up with kind, compassionate and inclusive attitudes. We hope that every primary school in Leigh can be part of this campaign, helping their young people to be the best version of themselves in school, at home and in the community.

Oliver Thomason, who stars in the On The Same Team campaign says: “It makes me sad when people are judged or not supported to fulfil their potential. Because I have a learning disability, sometimes people don’t see my potential.

"I want to help every child to understand their value in life and to see the best other people too. I know that this programme will help to change lives.”

Local teachers are invited to download their free resource pack now at www.TheSameTeam.co.uk.