Marcus Rashford saved free school meals during lockdown and is now about to take his place on the syllabus in recognition of his impact. The footballer, who became as famous for championing free meals for poorer families during school closures as for his sporting skills, will become part of a GCSE.
Pupils starting a GCSE in media studies this month will learn about the Manchester United and England star’s effective use of social media.
The AQA exam board has added Rashford, 23, to its syllabus along with Heat magazine, Kiss FM radio station and the television adaptation of His Dark Materials by Sir Philip Pullman.
A spokeswoman said that the footballer would be studied in lessons because of his increasing profile and the influence he earned from his charitable work and his stance against racism in sport.
It says that the changes to its syllabus are part of a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and that it will establish an expert group to consider representation in the curriculum and assessment.
Last year he encouraged fundraising and direct action to help people in need, being appointed MBE for services to vulnerable children in the UK during the height of the pandemic. He also became the youngest person to top The Sunday Times Giving List after he helped to raise £20 million for the food charity FareShare.
Sandra Allan, AQA’s head of curriculum for creative arts, said: “The changes we’ve made are engaging and relevant and will inspire and motivate.
“Marcus Rashford is one of the most influential and inspirational young people in the UK, so students can learn a huge amount from how he uses social media to make a real impact. It’s not just an opportunity for them to learn about social media – it’s also a great way to learn about important social and race issues as part of our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in the curriculum.”
