Greet Primary School, Sparkhill has been named as the Midlands’ top FA Charter Standard Primary School.

Having already won the Birmingham County FA award, they progressed to Regional heats, beating competition from hundreds of schools in 8 County Football Associations across the region.

Since gaining FA Charter Standard status in December 2003, PE Co-ordinator and Golden Hillock School Sports Partnership Co-ordinator, Alex Smith has worked hard to provide opportunities for pupils – not only at Greet, but in the surrounding area too.

"She has set up an after school centre which is open to girls within Greet’s school cluster group," said Gemma Adams, Birmingham County FA Football Development Officer. "So thanks to her, many more are now being given the chance to enjoy playing football – including girls from a mix of ethnic backgrounds."

Greet is one of 99 FA Charter Standard Primary Schools in the Birmingham County region which covers Birmingham, The Black Country and Warwickshire. All have proved that they reach set standards in coaching, first aid and football provision.

Gemma presented Alex and football crazy youngsters attending the after school centre with their prize of a certificate and footballs at Greet School, Sparkhill.

Staff from Birmingham County FA’s Football Development Scheme have provided coaching support for the school and have helped with funding applications and developing club links.

"We are also providing coach education support too, as she is keen to get female staff at the school FA qualifications, enabling them to become self-sufficient in the coaching department!

"Alex is aiming to launch a girls Primary School League in January," added Gemma. "So it looks like her fantastic work which earned this award is going to continue. I expect the pupils are as pleased as we are about that!"