Time is running out for schools yet to enter the Football Remembers design project to create a permanent national memorial to the Christmas Truce – one of the most iconic moments of the First World War.
The Duke of Cambridge – President of The FA – and Arsenal and England star Theo Walcott will help judge the winning entry, which will be built at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
The pair came together this week to discuss the unique project, which has seen the Premier League, Football League and The FA Join forces with the British Council.
More than 30,000 education packs have been distributed to schools across the country as part a nationwide commemoration this year marking 100 years since the start of the First World War. It includes resources to help children learn about the Truce – including eye-witness accounts, photos, drawings and letters from soldiers, some of which have never been published before.
A host of events are taking place throughout 2014. Every team in the Premier League and Football League as well as all 24 England sides will mark the centenary, right through to the grassroots - with every FA-registered club, County FA and UK primary and secondary school being asked to join in a series of activities between now and December 2014. Any football team in the UK and around the world will be welcome to participate.
Theo Walcott and HRH The Duke of Cambridge will judge the winner
The Football Remembers pack includes perspectives from British, French, Belgian, German and Indian witnesses and is accompanied by specially written activities for English, modern foreign languages, drama, art, sport, history, moral education and conflict resolution.
Prince William said: “I am delighted that children across the country will be taking part in a schools competition to design a memorial to the Christmas Truce – a competition which I will be helping to judge. The memorial will be housed at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, close to St. George’s Park . A fitting location, which I hope many who visit the national football centre in future, will stop by to visit.
“I would like to wish good luck to everyone who takes part and to thank all those who are involved in commemorating this year’s centenary of the First World War. It is vital we never forget.”
Walcott said: “It’s a privilege to be part of such a special project with HRH The Duke of Cambridge which teaches young people about football’s part in the First World War. I’m honoured to play my part in judging the competition which gives young people a chance to create something truly special.
"This will ensure this piece of history and the sacrifice of so many is never forgotten.”
Schools wishing to take part in the memorial design competition have been given an extra week until 11.59pm on Monday 23 June to submit their entries, with the winning design set to be unveiled in December.
