Lemington Riverside Primary School

NUFC Challenge winners visit St. James' Park!

Lemington Riverside Primary School's unique partnership with Newcastle United Football Club (NUFC) continues to inspire our pupils, and this term's challenge was a huge success!

Our children were set the exciting task of writing a letter to an NUFC Academy player who had moved to Newcastle from abroad. Their chosen player was Republic of Ireland international, Kyle Fitzgerald.

Welcome to Our Amazing City!

Kyle Fitzgerald received many warm, heartfelt letters from our Lemington Riverside children, all welcoming him to our amazing city. They made sure he knew all about our famous Geordie traditions, places, and foods—including the best way to enjoy a stottie, the stunning views from the Tyne Bridge and the Quayside, and the must-see spectacle of the Angel of the North!

After reading all the wonderful entries, Kyle could only select three winners: Izzi from Year 4, Harrison from Year 5, and Derrick from Year 3.

A Day as 'Mini Reporters'

Today, these three lucky winners enjoyed an unforgettable prize: a visit to the iconic St. James' Park Stadium!

The children became 'mini reporters' for the day, joining other winning pupils from the West End Schools' Trust (WEST) to interview real Newcastle United players in the media suite. They also enjoyed a delicious meal in the Four Corners Restaurant and an exclusive tour of the stadium.

A Familiar Face in the First Team!

During their visit, the children had an interesting and inspiring encounter with Newcastle United and Libyan international Mo Waddani.

In an amazing turn of events, it was revealed that Mo Waddani (pictured below) was previously taught by our very own Headteacher, Mr. Heeley, and Deputy Headteacher, Mr. Murphy, at their previous school!

This incredible connection shows our children that the sky is the limit for their ambitions. We can only wonder which of our talented Lemington Riverside Primary School children will be playing for Newcastle United in a few years' time! Howay the Lads and Lasses!