Whistlers is a resource for teachers to deliver to students (aged 11-14) in secondary schools. It covers the knowledge and rules required to be a football referee, with a significant focus on skill development. Skills developed will also benefit in wider leadership and volunteering contexts. Connections are also made to how this content supports broader educational outcomes such as Spiritual, Moral, Social & Cultural development (SMSC), fundamental British values, Personal, Social, Health and Economic education (PSHE), Relationships, Sex and Health Education, character development.

Whistlers aims to help young people develop a basic understanding of football and refereeing, as well as an awareness and understanding for the need of figures of authority within sport and society. Children and young people can form significant, meaningful relationships with their sporting coaches, who can offer support as valuable, positive role models.

The programme helps assist in reducing conflict within school and engaging children with behavioural issues in positive diversionary activity. It also raises awareness of the principles of ‘fair play,’ and helps young people unify and enjoy the school environment, drawing on the importance and experiences of sport.

The Whistlers Teachers Orientation/training session, will be accessed virtually and last for 2 hours. The session will be interactive and delivered via zoom.

Learning outcomes:

1. Develop an understanding of the target audience (11-14-year-old girls) and impact this training can have on them and others

2. Orientation around the training resources and student resource

3. Opportunity to understand activities to improve teacher confidence in delivery

4. Raise teacher understanding and confidence in Laws of the Game and FA Rules

5. Consider best delivery model for this content in your setting