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Sharow pupils enjoy visit from a class inspiration

Friday, 26 September 2025 16:21

Chris Kamara with pupils at Sharow Church of England Primary School, alongside headteacher Jacqui Palmer.

A much-loved former footballer and broadcaster has visited Sharow Church of England Primary School where a class was named after him.

Ex-Leeds United and Middlesbrough midfielder Chris Kamara spent the morning (Friday 26th September) at the school where he met pupils and staff and shared stories from his life and career.

Last year, Sharow teachers and pupils chose to name each class after a sporting hero who had triumphed over adversity. Year Three and Four were named the Chris Kamara Class, in recognition of his achievements both on and off the pitch.

Reflecting on the visit, Chris said:

“I thought what a wonderful school it must be to name a class after me.”

During his talk, he spoke about his early life in Middlesbrough, joining the Navy, his footballing journey, and his later career as a popular broadcaster on Sky Sports. Pupils quizzed him on topics ranging from his favourite footballers, the most famous person he had met, and how many goals he scored.

He also offered the children some inspiring advice about their own futures:

“Anybody can say whatever they want about anybody, but if in your heart and in your head you’ve got desire and want to be somebody, you can be somebody.”

Sharow headteacher Jacqui Palmer said the visit had been a memorable occasion for the school community.

“We had named a class after Chris because he’s such an inspirational character. It was wonderful for the staff and pupils to hear from him today and the story of his life. Our children got to hear how he has triumphed even when everything has not gone to plan for him, and he gave them some great advice. We were thrilled to have him visit our school.”

Discover more about Sharow Church of England Primary school here.

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