Up to 40,000 school children across western Sydney are set to benefit from new investment in the Football in Schools program, teaching them both the skills of the world game and lessons in life.

The four-year $14.5 million Football in Schools Program is a major initiative of the forthcoming NSW Budget that will see the NSW Government deliver on its election commitment to partner with A-League clubs Western Sydney Wanderers and Macarthur FC to provide football, education and wellbeing programs in local schools.

The program will feature a wide range of initiatives to get more students participating in sport, including targeted female, multicultural and all-abilities programs.

The program will also have focus on education with after school homework clubs and sessions on health and the benefits of an active lifestyle.

The initiatives will be delivered both in-schools and on-site at the A-League club’s training facilities with up to 40,000 students expected to participate in the program annually.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“40,000 kids will be able to participate in football programs with some of the best footballers and coaches in our nation.

“The Football in Schools Program will see more western Sydney students participating in sport and enjoying the benefits of that it offers.

“We understand that families in western Sydney are feeling the crunch of cost-of-living pressures and this free program will ensure that no child regardless of their background or ability misses out.”

Minister for Education and Western Sydney Prue Car said:

“Education is not just about books and laptops, some of the best lessons in life are on the sports field.

“By working in partnership with the Western Sydney Wanderers and Macarthur FC, the Football in Schools Program will bring the classroom to the football pitch.”