It was the lesson of a lifetime for starstruck schoolchildren who met their Newcastle United hero Joelinton during his visit to see Newcastle United Foundation’s community work in action.

Pupils from South Gosforth First School, in Newcastle, were enjoying a multi-sports session delivered by Foundation staff at the charity’s new home, NUCASTLE, powered by Newcastle Building Society, when Joelinton stopped by to meet the youngsters.

While taking part in the session funded by First Class Supply – long-term and valued supporters of the Foundation – children improving their communication and coordination through sports and skill-based activities were thrilled to see the Brazilian midfielder join them in NUCASTLE’s four-court sports hall.

Taking a break from multi-sports games, the Year 3 group were able to ask Joelinton questions from why and when he started to play football to what his favourite Geordie word is.

Andrew Johnson, Senior Primary Area Coordinator at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “It’s been genuinely inspirational for the schoolchildren to meet their hero today and to learn more about Joelinton’s career and how his hard work has led him from Brazil to playing for Newcastle United.

“Our multi-sports sessions give children the opportunity to start their journey into regular activity by enjoying and exploring a range of sports and games.

“We’re able to introduce lots of youngsters to a future of enjoying sport recreationally or even as a potential career – meeting a professional footballer inspires them to follow their dreams and look forward to what they can do through sport.”

Following questions from the class, Joelinton went on to sign autographs and schoolbooks for the children from South Gosforth First School, as well as meeting Hannah Lynn, First Class Supply Recruitment Consultant, who was able to see the multi-sports session in action.

Through the Foundation’s ongoing partnership with First Class Supply, more than 1,000 North East children enjoy regular, one-hour sessions at NUCASTLE and in primary schools in Gateshead, Newcastle, Northumberland and North Tyneside every year.

Lesley Robinson, Founder and Director at First Class Supply, said: “First Class Supply have worked in partnership with the Foundation for many years and we are extremely proud that we have been able to support our schools with educational projects like this, which inspire and impact children across the region.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to Joelinton for his time and for meeting the children we support with Newcastle United Foundation.”

For more information about the Foundation and programmes near you, follow Newcastle United Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter for regular news and updates.