AN England football international made a surprise visit to a school in Burnley.

Burnley FC goalkeeper Tom Heaton surprised pupils at Whittlefield Primary School last week by joining in with one of their Premier League Primary Stars PE lessons, helping children get active on their return from the summer holiday break.

The 32-year-old shocked pupils when he walked into their Premier League Primary Stars PE lesson last Thursday.

He joined Year 5 and 6 pupils in a session which involved a mix of physical education and mathematics.

Whilst at Whittlefield Primary School, the Clarets captain donated a Premier League Primary Stars equipment pack, including footballs, numbered and lettered floor spots and giant dice, which teachers at the primary school can use in lessons across the curriculum to help inspire children to learn and be active.

Heaton, who has made over 150 appearances for Burnley, said: “To be involved in the Primary Stars initiative today has been great.

“You can see the children enjoying it, mixing the maths and the literature with the physical activity – it’s brilliant.

“It’s a different way of educating that carries a lot of weight. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon.”

Heaton’s back to school visit coincided with the opening of the Premier League Primary Stars Kit and Equipment Scheme application window, which enables primary school teachers across England and Wales to apply for a free Nike football strip or a free equipment pack.

Burnley FC is one of 101 Premier League, EFL and National League clubs in England and Wales which provides in-school support to teachers and pupils as part of Premier League Primary Stars - the organisation’s education-linked community programme.