11 March 2008
Thousands of students from schools in Melbourne's western region are learning about healthy and happy living in an innovative program launched by the Western Bulldogs in partnership with Victoria University (VU) and AFL Victoria.
The 'Bulldog Friendly Schools' program will deliver messages to Grades 3 and 4 students about the importance of building fitness, and developing broad values of harmony, fair play and teamwork.
The program is supported by 50 pre-service (trainee) teachers from VU, in conjunction with their classroom teachers in schools.
Natalie Vernuccio, VU Partnerships Manager, Access and Success, said the project offered much more than footy clinics and player visits.
She said: It is well recognised that Melbourne's west has a higher level of disadvantage, and we can use footy as a conduit to keep students active, healthy, happy, and engaged at school. This is aimed at building physical, social, and educational outcomes."
The project was three years in development, and trialled last year in primary schools in Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Wyndham and Melton.
Schools can choose a 'Footy in Schools' program, which communicates the importance of regular physical activity, footy skills, and nutrition to children and their families. They can also chose a 'Multicultural Schools' program, which offers an introduction to footy for schools with a high proportion of students from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Both programs have a strong focus on 'values education', such as leadership, harmony and respect, supported by AFL web-based activities: class work, outdoor training, and a student scrapbook featuring K9 - the Bulldogs Friendly Schools mascot. The programs are offered free to schools.
All activities in the program link into a variety of Victorian Essential Learning Standards, including Personal Learning, English, Citizenship, and Health and Physical Education.
Natalie said organisers expect to extend the program to secondary schools next year, and then look at expanding it state-wide through other clubs in future.
VU Deputy Chancellor Di Foggo said the initiative fulfilled a key part of VU's charter to transform the lives of people in the west of Melbourne and beyond, through education and training.
She said: "It is so encouraging to see the goodwill and partnerships involved in this program, which encourages students to live a better life, and pass that along to their family and friends."
Further information: Natalie Vernuccio, Partnerships Manager, Access and Success, Victoria University. Ph: (03) 9919 7546.
A photo of students participating in the program is available on request
Media Contact: Andy Gash, Snr. Media Officer,
Marketing & Communications Department, Victoria University
Ph: (03) 9919 4950; mobile: 0411 255 900
