BAE Systems donates £61k to boost literacy skills across Lancashire

Posted on 31 Jan 2025 by The Manufacturer

BAE Systems has donated £61,000 to Fylde Rugby Community Foundation to help hundreds of children across deprived areas in Fylde, Blackpool and Wyre gain crucial literacy skills.

The funding, spread over three years, will enable the foundation to expand its Rugby Reading Champions programme in Lancashire. This partnership continues BAE Systems’ investment in community organisations and projects in the North West, which last year totalled more than half-a-million pounds.

Last academic year, the programme was delivered in 15 primary schools across Blackpool and five primary schools in Fleetwood, delivering a one-hour literacy session and one-hour tag rugby session over the course of 10 weeks to 300 children in years 5 and 6.

As well as developing their reading ability, the programme strengthens children’s teamwork and communication skills, allowing them to build up their confidence while also enjoying the physical benefits of being involved in an active team sport with meaningful values.

The 2025 programme kicked off this month at Weeton St Michael’s school.

Gareth Edwards, Finance Director, BAE Systems Air, said: “As a business in Lancashire, we have a duty to support the young people within our communities. We’re proud to be partnering with the Fylde Rugby Community Foundation and its Rugby Reading Champions programme, so more children can develop essential skills which will take them through their education and future careers. So much of the work we do at BAE Systems relies on excellent teamwork and communication, therefore we know how valuable these qualities are. The children supported through this programme will be able to benefit from what they’ve learned in the classroom and on the pitch for many years to come.”

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