Supporters of Premier League clubs Manchester United, Liverpool, Everton, Newcastle United, Charlton Athletic, Wigan Athletic, and Football League sides Norwich City, Leicester City, Brighton & Hove Albion and Bristol City will be able to hone their learning skills either at their club or local college.

The ‘Heading for Success' project, launched today at the FA headquarters in London, will use the power of football to attract adults into learning, for example, learning maths by understanding transfer fees or the battle to avoid relegation, or improving reading and writing by producing match reports or analysing commentary.

Today’s launch will be kicked off by Skills Minister Phil Hope; Minister for Sport Richard Caborn and FA Head of Football Development, Sir Trevor Brooking.

Phil Hope said: "We want to use the popularity of football to encourage adults to improve their skills and transform their lives both at home and at work.

"Although over one and a quarter million people have returned to learning and gained a qualification under our Skills for Life campaign, there are still many more people who could benefit.

"Working with football clubs is a great way to reach out to people who might otherwise feel awkward about returning to learning. Now these first 10 clubs and learning providers have committed to the programme we plan to sign up more for the start of the new season."

Sir Trevor Brooking said: "Fans have a great loyalty to their club – and it is great to see some of the top clubs using this to help improve the literacy and numeracy skills in their local community.

"We hope this initiative will help people realise that it’s never too late to learn as an adult. Anyone wanting to sign up for a free adult literacy or numeracy course should call 0800 100 900 and mention ‘Heading for Success’."

Richard Caborn added: "From Newcastle United to Brighton & Hove Albion, all the clubs involved in this campaign share one thing in common - the loyalty and passion of their fans.

"Heading for Success is a great example of football clubs harnessing this so they can give something back to their communities. These clubs deserve praise for getting involved in the project from the outset and helping to make it happen."

Also attending the event is Brighton & Hove Albion captain, Charlie Oatway, who has lent his support to the campaign as he has struggled with his own literacy skills in the past.

He said: "I got to a stage in my life when the kids were asking me to do things – for example, helping them with their homework. I would just have to send them to their Mum, which was horrible for me but also for them.

"I knew about the club’s study centre and I just gave it a go. There is a brilliant atmosphere in there that is informal and relaxed. I’m currently trying to get my Level 1 in Literacy.

"I would say to anyone worrying about their maths or English, just take that first step and call 0800 100 900 – you will always be glad you did."

The 10 clubs will work with a local college or learning provider to offer adult education in a branded classroom, either at the college or within the club grounds.

Football-themed learning materials will also be available. More leading football clubs are expected to join the scheme later in the year. Heading for Success is supported by the Football Association, the Premier League, and the Football League.

Representatives from each of the clubs and learning providers involved were presented with a plaque as an acknowledgement of their support. The event will be hosted by former Tottenham star and broadcaster Garth Crooks.