Earlier this week, we welcomed the whole year of the year 5 year group from William Shrewsbury Primary School to the Pirelli Stadium for our Show Racism the Red Card event. During the morning, pupils took part in a series of interactive workshops delivered by the Show Racism the Red Card team, focusing on the importance of standing up to racism and promoting equality.
In the afternoon, the children enjoyed a special visit from BAFC Men’s First Team players Fabio Távares, Jack Newall, and BAFC Women’s First Team players Shanae Thomas and Olivia Smith. The players joined the pupils for a Q&A session, where the children asked insightful questions about racism, before taking time to pose for photos and sign items.
Louisa Abbey, Schools Co‑ordinator, said: “It was a fantastic event to share such an important message about standing up to racism. The team from Show Racism the Red Card delivered excellent workshops, helping the children understand such a vital topic. The pupils from William Shrewsbury were a credit to their school and fully engaged in all of the activities. The visit from our men’s and women’s first team players made the day even more special.”
David McArdle, Campaign Worker at Show Racism The Red Card, added: “The pupils from William Shrewsbury Primary School approached the day in an attentive and respectful manner and showed great maturity when discussing racism. It was inspiring to see how enthusiastic and engaged they were when learning about anti‑racism. Days like this give us hope for a more respectful and positive future for all.”
Emma Griffiths, Teacher at William Shrewsbury Primary School, said: “Our visit to the Show Racism the Red Card event was an incredibly positive and memorable experience for our Year 5 children. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was welcoming, engaging and inspiring. The workshops were age‑appropriate and impactful, with pupils actively involved in discussions and interactive activities that helped them understand equality, respect and how to stand up against racism. Complex ideas were explained clearly, allowing the children to relate them to their own lives and experiences. The sessions encouraged pupils to think critically about their actions and how they can make a positive difference within their school and community. The facilitators created a safe space where children felt confident sharing their thoughts.Hosting the event at the Pirelli Stadium made the experience even more special. Being in a professional football environment captured the children’s interest and reinforced the message that everyone, including role models in sport, has a role to play in promoting inclusion. Meeting both the women’s and men’s players and asking them questions about racism was the absolute icing on the cake, they were amazing.”
For more information about our Primary Stars Programme, please contact Louisa.Abbey@burtonalbionct.org.
