Chelsea Foundation bringing STEM to life in New York

Chelsea Foundation bringing STEM to life in New York

Chelsea FC Foundation staff from education and international departments have been in New York, delivering free coaching and STEM-focused (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) sessions to students from 25 schools in Harlem and the surrounding area.

Since 2013, the Chelsea Foundation has enjoyed a collaborative relationship with FC Harlem and local schools in the New York City area, with this visit taking in trips to work with youngsters from Mott Hall School and Manhattan East School in New York.

Chelsea Foundation head of education Matt Mead explained the significance of the model which has already proved hugely successful in London. He said: ‘Although the programme is an online platform to understand the importance of STEM and how it relates to the game of football, it was also key that the Foundation coaches brought STEM to life via football clinics to show the physics of football and how STEM plays a key role in the game. We want to ensure the students learn the critical STEM skills via the EverFi platform but also connect with UK coaches and see how passing, shooting and the flight of the ball all relate to the science of football, as well as spend time learning about Chelsea FC and football. The students engaged well and enjoyed their sessions, playing with a smile on their faces while learning how science, technology, engineering and mathematics are key subjects in today’s world and how developing these skills will aid them in future education and career choices.’

Chris Woodward, the lead international coach on the trip, who oversaw coaching sessions for 150 children added: ‘Since the launch of the Everfi Digital Blue STEM programme back in September 2018, Everfi have delivered to 24 schools within the city of New York. As part of our ongoing relationship, along with our work with FC Harlem, we wanted to offer football coaching provisions within these schools, giving the students a true Chelsea FC experience. We were excited to deliver this to two schools to kick things off and we look forward to engaging with many more schools across the spring term.’