The Schools United events bring more than 400 Greater Manchester students to Old Trafford, in an innovative use of the stadium during the World Cup break.
Manchester United Foundation has brought together pupils from its partner primary and secondary schools to enjoy a day of exciting learning opportunities as part of two unique schooldays at Old Trafford.
The Schools United events have seen pupils engage in lessons designed to broaden their knowledge in areas such as media, art, digital technology and food technology.
Former Reds defenders Wes Brown and Danny Simpson were also in attendance, delighting pupils by getting involved in food preparation, design, and broadcasting lessons.
Wes Brown said: “It gives the kids an idea of exactly what’s going on [at the club] on any given day. To come to Old Trafford and to experience some of the stuff that goes on, it’s a great day, and I’m sure they’ve all loved it.”
Danny Simpson added: “It’s a great opportunity for them to come here and think about their future. These kids will go home today and tell their parents, and tell their friends at school tomorrow.
“They’ve got to take a lot from this and I’m sure they will, because they looked like they were enjoying it.”
Club staff and partners were among those delivering the exciting lessons, which included members of the media team detailing some of the processes behind Manchester United’s website and social media channels, while Foundation presenting partner, DXC Technology helped students to learn about creating a mobile application.
Zayd, 14, who attended the secondary school event, said: “I love Manchester United so this is my dream. Today has been amazing.
“It’s the best school day ever because I got to come to my favourite stadium, where my favourite team play.
“It’s made me think about how there are not just one or two career options out there; there are loads of different things you can do.”
Amy Frain, head of year nine at Dean Trust Broadoak School, explained how pupils had become more aware of the career opportunities available in football as a result of attending the event.
Amy said: “It’s been brilliant. It’s the fact that you can see what they can achieve and where they can go, and with a business like Manchester United, that they can go in all directions.
“It’s opened the eyes of quite a few children to say, ‘I can go far from here’. Hopefully they can take that on, especially as they are picking their GCSE options this year, and moving forward they can get to where they want.”
For more information about Manchester United Foundation please visit www.mufoundation.org