In November 2024, the Government of Tamil Nadu partnered with the British Council India to implement the Premier League Primary Stars, a programme aimed at equipping children with essential life skills through sports and physical education.  

The Operational Alliance Agreement was signed by Mr. S. Kannappan, Director of School Education, Government of Tamil Nadu, marking a significant step in enhancing educational experiences for young learners. 

The programme leverages the global appeal of the Premier League and the British Council’s trusted network to provide high-quality physical education training to teachers and educators. By fostering a supportive learning environment, the trained teachers open a path for children to participate in enjoyable sports and physical activities, helping them develop important life skills. 

The first phase of the PLPS training, the Leaders course, was held in December 2024, in Trichy, Tamil Nadu. A total of 76 physical education teachers from all 38 districts of Tamil Nadu attended the training. Conducted in both Tamil and English, the course aimed to empower educators with innovative teaching techniques.

The training was well-received, with teachers expressing enthusiasm. When asked about the key lessons they gained, teachers highlighted areas such as effective lesson preparation, teaching methods for primary students, balancing and coordination, team spirit, inclusion, child protection, and the SMILES and STEPS frameworks. 

Collaboration and support

Premier League Primary Stars initiative in Tamil Nadu is delivered in close collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Department of School Education. This partnership highlights the commitment to empowering physical education teachers to create impactful and inclusive learning experiences.