The Arbours Primary Academy Embraces American Football with Chicago Bears Outreach Programme
On 9th October 2024, The Arbours Primary Academy, alongside seven other DRET Primary Academies, participated in the prestigious Chicago Bears outreach programme, known as Mini Monsters. The Chicago Bears, a renowned professional American football team based in Chicago, Illinois, compete in the National Football League (NFL) as part of the league's National Football Conference North Division. With a distinguished history, the Bears have secured nine NFL Championships—eight prior to the AFL–NFL merger—and one Super Bowl title in 1985.
This collaboration aims to promote teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness among young athletes within the community. Through direct engagement with students, the Bears are enhancing their educational experiences and fostering strong connections between professional sports organisations and local institutions.
The day began at Bobby Moore Primary Academy, part of the David Ross Education Trust, located in the former Olympic Park in Stratford, East London. Students from Bobby Moore, The Arbours Primary Academy, Eastfield Academy, Cedar Road Primary School, Malcolm Arnold Prep School, Kings Heath Academy, Briar Hill Primary School, and Ingoldsby Academy gathered for the opening activities. The Chicago Bears youth coaching team was ready to welcome them, accompanied by the Bears' drumline. While the children were put through their paces, the drumline played some of the Bears’ famous music, creating an energetic atmosphere. Over 120 children actively participated in a variety of drills designed to introduce them to the fundamental rules and excitement of American football.
A standout moment of the day was the presence of Charles “Peanut” Tillman, a former professional American football player and cornerback, who actively engaged with the children, encouraging them and offering tips on how to improve their game. He was joined by Staley, the Chicago Bears mascot, which further heightened the excitement of the event.
To commemorate this enriching experience, the children received cards featuring Charles Tillman’s profile and autograph, providing them with a cherished keepsake. This outreach programme not only introduced David Ross Education Trust students to the sport but also left a lasting impression, inspiring them to embrace teamwork and physical activity.
Angela Watts, Principal of The Arbours Primary Academy, commented, "It was an amazing experience for our pupils, and I’m so proud of how they engaged with the day. The Chicago Bears outreach programme gave them a unique opportunity to try something completely new, while also learning valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and physical fitness. Seeing our students so excited and motivated by the activities was truly inspiring. At The Arbours, we’re always looking for ways to broaden our students’ horizons and give them opportunities to discover their potential, and this event was a perfect example of that."
