The festival was jointly organised by Manchester FA, Failsworth Sports College, Ashton on Mersey High School, Brookway High School and Wright Robinson Sports College and the Schools Sports Co-ordinator programmes, to mark the culmination of a large after-school football development programme in Greater Manchester.

Leading up to the event, Sport College student's were trained in the Junior Football Organiser course which led to everyone being actively involved in the organisation of the festival, and all student's assuming key roles such as transport co-ordinator, referee co-ordinator, referees and various other key administration roles.

Every child had the opportunity to have their face painted in the team colours of their school, and received a medal and certificate to commemorate their participation in the event.

Manchester FA Chief Executive Jon Dutton said:

"The Schools Festival showcased the talents of the children taking part and follows on from the enormous success of the recent Champions League Final. Once again Manchester is leading the way in football development illustrating the diversity and popularity of football at all levels."

Tracey Ashton Partnership Development Manager at Failsworth Sports College said:

"This was a unique event which embraced 76 primary schools and offered football opportunities to 760 primary school children of all levels of proficieny.

"The event enabled schools to use a football competition as a catalyst to numeracy, literacy and leadership work within the curriculum."

Effective partnership working between the FA and Sports Colleges is embracing the minds and bodies of many students and teachers and is identifying pathways for future development and will raise standards in many ways.

If you would like more information on how you can get involved in local football in Manchester, contact the Manchester FA on 0161 881 0299 or e-mail: info@ManchesterFA.com