The MP for Chesterfield and Staveley is calling for local schools to get involved with Soccer Aid’s challenge this year. After a two year break due to the pandemic, UNICEF is asking schools to take part in making the most number of kick-ups as possible.

The challenge is open to all primary and secondary school pupils and is open to all children regardless of ability.

Schools team up with pupils to design an obstacle course to take on together raising money to help UNICEF’s work for children around the world. Pupils can then bring in £1 to take part, get parents to sponsor them or hold a bake sale to help reach their fundraising target. By getting schools all across the country dribbling, kicking and bouncing footballs across playgrounds, they are helping children everywhere have the playtimes they deserve.

Money raised by schools across the country for the Soccer Aid Schools Challenge will help UNICEF support children by getting the critical supplies they need to remain safe and secure. UNICEF’s emergency workers and partners on the ground, work towards ensuring that families have access to clean water, nutrition, routine vaccinations, and education to grow up happy, healthy and able to play.

Toby said “as a passionate football fan it is always good to do something you enjoy and raise money for a good cause. The work of UNICEF in providing relief around the world during natural disasters and conflicts is something that needs to be supported so I urge all pupils in Chesterfield and Staveley to get their football boots on and give this challenge a go!”

Suzanne Ryder Richardson, Director of Soccer Aid for UNICEF, said: “We are delighted that the Soccer Aid Schools Challenge is finally back for 2022. The spring term is underway at schools across the country and with warmer, longer days afoot children can be outside, doing what children should – playing. By taking part in the Soccer Aid Schools Challenge you and your school can help raise crucial funds to help children around the world get back to the carefree, play-filled childhoods they deserve.”

Get the ball rolling. To sign up to the Schools Challenge go to: www.socceraid.org.uk/schools and get the whole school moving in the name of helping UNICEF protecting play for every child worldwide.