WHETHER a school is already delivering girls’ football, or they want to take the first step to give girls equal access, the #LetGirlsPlay ‘Biggest Ever Football Session’ is one not to be missed, and schools all over Essex are preparing to get involved.

On Wednesday 9th March, England Football and Barclays are aiming to get as many girls as possible in school all playing football on the same day. The intention is to take a stand and to make a difference for girls to play football with one simple message: #LetGirlsPlay.

LetGirlsPlay is a campaign to drive influence and change perceptions, showing that football can, and should, be played by girls. It is bringing together a growing community of people of all genders, ages and backgrounds who want to champion equal access for girls, helping to create independent, resilient young girls who will be a force for good in all local communities.

At lunchtime, in a lesson or after school, teachers can use their own session plans or take inspiration from free resources available on the England Football website. By 2024, an ambition shared by The FAs and Barclays is for girls to have the same football opportunities as boys in schools and clubs. The Essex County FA ‘Moving Forward 2024’ Strategy also contains some ambitious targets.

To find out more, visit www.englandfootball.com/letgirlsplay. Schools can also head to www.girlsfootballinschools.org/letgirlsplay.php to get involved. More information on participating in Essex grassroots football can be found at www.essexfa.com, by following @EssexCountyFA on Twitter and by searching for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.