Canaries striker Simeon Jackson was on hand to reward local schoolchildren for their academic achievements at Carrow Road last night.

There were 40 children graduating from the NCFC Double Club, a partnership with Norfolk County Council to help children improve their maths, English and football skills.

The Canada international gave out medals and certificates at the Study Support Centre at Carrow Road to year-seven students from Sprowston High School, as well as Astley Primary School, near Melton Constable, and Sheringham High School.

The course is football themed, with children using the sport to develop their understanding of the core subjects – such as using Carrow Road's seat numbers and players' squad numbers in maths.

A tutor visits each school once a week over a term and teaches pupils one hour of literacy and one hour of numeracy.

Hard-working students are then rewarded with an hour of football coaching.

Mr Jackson, 24, spent the first three years of his life growing up in Jamaica but then spent the rest of his formative years close to Ontario, Canada.

He said: 'Growing up in Canada we didn't have anything like this.

'We didn't have any pro sports teams near us, so it's good to come and see the kids getting these chances.

'I had to mix studies and football or I would have got in trouble but something like this would definitely help to make you more focused.

'It's great the club do these things to help.'

The Double Club has now supported more than 600 students since it was launched in 2007.

This term, pupils from Sprowston High School, Sewell Park College, Foulsham Primary School, Cawston Primary School will take part in the programme.

Is your school holding an event? Contact reporter David Freezer on 01603 772418 or david.freezer@archant.co.uk