The Australian Rugby League has opened the doors to a new classroom at its headquarters, with the aim of giving students direction in literacy, numeracy and personal development and health.
The ARL Commission says the classroom is the first of its kind in Australian sport.
The Learning with League Centre at Rugby League Central was opened for business with ARLC Interim Chief Executive Shane Mattiske, pictured with students, welcoming The Grange Public School of Minto as the first formal class.
The ARLC said in a statement: “The Learning with League Program has three main focus areas of values, teamwork and respect. Through a series of role plays, group work and mini challenges, students will be encouraged to explore and develop their skills in decision making, comprehension, problem solving and communication.
”Students will undertake curriculum based activities which support their development in problem solving, decision making and positive behaviour.
Mattiske said: “The Learning with League Centre is an expression of our game and its strong links to the community.
“From the outset in our planning for Rugby League Central it was our intention to create a space and continue to deliver education programs that enables us to engage and work more closely with the broader community.
“We are extremely proud of this facility and the Learning with League Centre program, which provides us with the opportunity to bring all Australians into contact with our great game.”
The statement said a strong focus of this term’s program is Literacy, whereby Rugby League magazines and Rugby League themed resources will be utilised. During these activities, students will demonstrate and develop their speaking and listening, reading and writing skills.
“We believe that Rugby League is more than just a sport in Australia,” General Manager, Community, Culture & Diversity, Trish Crews said.
“It is a tradition, a ritual, a culture, a passion and a way of life for many people and our new Learning with League Centre is a way to engage students in the learning process, with the use of Rugby League.”
The program will be directed by Primary School Teacher, Melanie Crinion, a former Rugby League Development Officer and teacher at Oxley Park Public School in Sydney’s west.
The Learning with League Centre will initially conduct three classes per week running from 10:00am -2:00pm.
More information about the Learning with League Centre Program is available at www.rloc.com.au
Image: ARLC
