Latest News
Date:
5/5/2026
Posted By:
Matt
Category:
Trust News
Pereira supports after-school club in St Ann’s
Nottingham Forest Community Trust recently welcomed Vítor Pereira to St Ann’s Well Academy, where he joined pupils taking part in a Premier League Primary Stars after-school football session delivered by coach Harry.
The visit gave Vítor the opportunity to see first-hand the impact of Nottingham Forest Community Trust’s flagship schools programme, funded by the Premier League Foundation and delivered through Premier League Primary Stars, which has been running at St Ann’s Well Academy since 2017.
Primary Stars uses the power of football to inspire children in PE, PSHE and across the curriculum, while after-school clubs play a vital role in providing safe, structured environments where children can build confidence, stay active and develop teamwork beyond the classroom.
The session saw Vítor join coach Harry’s indoor football activity, taking part in drills and spending time with pupils, where he explained how he became a professional head coach.
Vítor’s surprise visit forms part of the Premier League’s More Than A Game campaign, which celebrates football’s role in supporting education, wellbeing and communities across the country and was featured on BBC Match of the Day last weekend.
Coach Harry said: “Having Vítor come into our after-school club was a fantastic experience for the children.
“He really got involved, encouraged everyone, and brought lots of energy into the hall.
“Experiences like this show the real value of Primary Stars and what it can do for young people.”
Head teacher Emily Smithurst added: “We have been proud participants in the Premier League Stars programme for several years, and being part of the Match of the Day experience was truly unforgettable.
“Vítor made a huge impact on our children. He was incredibly inspiring, encouraging them to aim high, believe in themselves, and work hard to achieve their dreams. What really stood out was how wonderfully he connected with the children.
“He threw himself into the experience, even taking on the role of goalkeeper and fully joining in with their after-school club activities. His energy, positivity, and genuine enthusiasm made the entire experience incredibly special for everyone involved.”
"This is the best of football."
Nottingham Forest boss Vitor Pereira loved his time helping kids at a coaching session with the @NFFC_Community. pic.twitter.com/hPyzfynALn
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) May 3, 2026
If you’re part of a Nottinghamshire primary school and would like to explore bringing Premier League Primary Stars into your setting for the 2026/27 academic year, get in touch with Nottingham Forest Community Trust to find out how the programme can support your pupils both in and beyond the classroom.
