Stockport County Community Trust Assembly Programme returns to local primary schools

Stockport County Community Trust has relaunched its Primary School Assembly Programme in schools across the borough, with more than 300 children taking part in the first sessions of the year at Adswood Primary School and All Saints Primary in Marple.

The sessions see Stockport County mascot, Vernon Bear, lead an engaging and interactive assembly that celebrates the club’s history and the heritage of the town. The assemblies, which are aimed at Key Stage 2, help pupils learn about the club’s identity, including why we are known as the Hatters, as well as providing a range of fun challenges and games.

The assembly also introduces Vernon’s Values: caring, passionate, inspiring, brave, and inclusive. These values are highlighted throughout the session, encouraging children to think about teamwork, respect, and how they can show these qualities and values in everyday life. It is also hoped the association with Stockport County will help them become ‘passionate’ about their local club.

One of the highlights of the 45-minute assembly is the ‘Be the Crowd’ game, where pupils recreate the atmosphere of Edgeley Park and celebrate some of County’s goals already scored this season.

As part of the programme, 50 children from each school also receive a special ‘Vernon’s Golden Ticket’: a free matchday family ticket to come to watch County in action.

Speaking about the school assembly programme, Stockport County CEO Simon Wilson said:

“The school assembly programme has always played a pivotal role in the community programmes delivered by Stockport County. Thousands of local children have benefited over the years, from the 1990s when the idea of a school assembly was developed by our now Club President, Steve Bellis. 

“It is fantastic to have been able to continue this work and to take the assembly to All Saints Primary School and Adswood Primary School last week, helping to continue County’s legacy, to engage with our community and to encourage new generations of supporters.”