AFLSA Background

History of WAFC’s Education Partnership

WAFC’s strategic intent is to increase participation
School system seen as key area to achieve this outcome
Existing programs are working well
Formation of WAFC Education Advisory Group to enhance the partnership
Partnership paper was produced with the key message;

Vision

The vision is to create a proactive, sustainable and mutually beneficial partnership between the WA Department of Education and Training and the WA Football Commission in order to ensure that Australian Rules Football becomes a medium by which all girls and boys are engaged in safe and well organised physical activity focussing on health, well-being, nutrition, teamwork, enjoyment, social development, confidence, self-esteem and academic achievement.

Objectives

To provide resources to improve the social, academic, physical and emotional outcomes for all students
To provide male role models
To ensure school staff are motivated, confident and sufficiently skilled
To develop employment and participation pathways for students
To ensure that Australian Rules Football is seen by all as a highly suitable sport

Foundation Strategies

The appointment and training of a schoolteacher “Football Ambassador” (AFLSA)
To develop programs and curriculum materials
Provision of footballs and equipment to the school
Guaranteed visits by AFL, WAFL and Community players to every AFLSA school
Deliver the programs through a “Football Development Cell”

Outcomes

West Australian School children enhanced fitness, health, physical skills and well being
Teachers report Male Students more actively involved in classroom activities
Teachers report curriculum materials and support programs are effective, motivating and relevant
Greater involvement by Ethnic and Aboriginal students
A strong, sustainable and mutually beneficial partnership between Education and the WAFC

Key Foundation Strategy - The AFL School Ambassador (AFLSA)
EXPECTATIONS OF ROLE

AFLSA to be a strong promoter of football in the school, especially how relatively safe football is.
Be an advocate for football programs in school.
Implement AFL Education CD Rom education package in schools
Professionally develop other staff members
Ensure participation of the school in all football programs
Be an active “Team” member of football “cell” in the district
Contact person for Junior Community Club
Promote junior registration day
Inform P & C group at a meeting
Promote school holiday coaching clinics
Promote school football in the Media
Ensure there is a Football in every classroom
Ensure there are goal posts on oval
Involve WAFL and AFL role models in literacy and numeracy activities
Include football activities in daily fitness and athletic carnivals

Support for Football Ambassadors