“It’s been the best day of my life.” – St Chad’s Primary School pupils revel in meeting England stars

Mesmerised children from St Chad’s Primary School got to meet their England football heroes and Football Association President Prince William on the eve of the European Championships.

A team of pupils from the Lichfield school – part of the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership – competed in a schools’ tournament at England’s St George’s Park National Football Centre, where they also mingled with the stars before England departed for Euro 2024 in Germany.

England captain Harry Kane and Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham were among those who posed for pictures and chatted with the thrilled youngsters. The visit then finished in style when the schoolchildren waved off the team from their hotel.

Fellow Year 6 pupil Lucinda was introduced to Prince William and put the questions to Kane before being filmed about her experiences by ITV and Sky News.

St Chad’s Head of School Jennifer Aitken, who managed to grab a selfie with the Prince of Wales, explained: “The event was organised by the FA for a selection of children from across the Midlands. At St Chad’s, we have Aston Villa coaches come in to work with pupils and one of them contacted me to ask if the school wanted to represent the club at the event.

“It was such a privilege to be chosen. We weren’t sure if the children would actually get to meet the players or just watch them train, so to be able to meet them was incredible. Playing football at such a fantastic venue and then meeting the team is an experience they’ll never forget.

“Once we’d arrived, we were told to expect a special guest and it was unbelievable when Prince William just casually strolled around the corner! He was very down to earth and relaxed and, like the players, had time for all the children.

Main picture: Team St Chad’s meet Harry Kane.