West Bromwich Collegiate Academy was delighted to welcome author and former football journalist Dan Freedman for an inspirational talk with year 8 students, during which he shared insights into his career in sport and writing.
Freedman spoke about his journey from football journalism into authorship, drawing on his experience as managing editor at The Football Association and his time travelling with the England team at two World Cups. He also reflected on his experience interviewing leading players and his ongoing commitment to encouraging young people to engage with reading and writing.
Students took part in a lively question-and-answer session, asking about careers in journalism, storytelling and professional sport. Freedman responded in detail, encouraging students to pursue interests with curiosity and persistence.
A highlight of the visit saw Freedman sign 155 copies of his books for students, with many leaving the session with signed editions and a renewed enthusiasm for reading.
Freedman is best known for his Jamie Johnson football novels, which have sold more than 700,000 copies worldwide and have been adapted for BBC television. The series has been broadcast in 73 countries and is widely recognised for engaging reluctant readers through sport-led storytelling.
Speaking after the event, Freedman said: “Thanks so much for the brilliant visit. It was such a pleasure. The students were outstanding. I really enjoyed it. I do hope the students enjoyed it too.”
Hannah Percival, Vice Principal at West Bromwich Collegiate Academy, said: “Author visits like this make a real difference to our students because they show reading and writing in action beyond the classroom. Dan was able to directly show how literacy has underpinned his career in sport and journalism, and our students responded positively to that authenticity.
“We are committed to fostering a love of reading across the Academy, particularly among students who do not always see themselves as avid readers, and sessions like this help to break down those barriers. Opportunities like this help to remove barriers and show that reading has real relevance beyond the classroom.”
The visit formed part of the Academy’s ongoing focus on strengthening literacy across the curriculum and promoting reading for pleasure as a key driver of academic success. By providing students with meaningful encounters with authors and real-world role models, the academy aims to broaden engagement and support students to become confident, independent learners.
