The Bermuda Brazilian Football School (BBFS) will provide mentoring for young students at the Warwick Pre-school free of charge.

Entitled the Mini Brazilian Football Programme, 71 students will receive life lessons from BBFS coaches in the wake of a partnership forged in 2011 between both parties, which has benefited more than 160 students.

Starting next Tuesday and running until May 2014, the programme will target several areas of development and learning that is promoted in pre-school, including language, cognitive mathematics and social studies.

Last year, the initiative was financially supported by local firm Endurance and offered 80 pre-schoolers football skills and positive male mentoring.

“We are pleased to return to the Warwick Pre-school to continue our Mini Brazilian Football and Life Skills Programme,” Cal Blankendal, the chief executive of BBFS, said. “Our main goal is to introduce each student, male and female, to the game of football and act as positive male role models, via our fun and learning-based activities.”

“This year the programme is not being sponsored, but that has not deterred us from continuing to offer our services and equipment, at no charge to the wonderful students of the school.”

Jennifer DeRosa Holder, pre-school administrator said: ““Warwick Pre-school was introduced to the Mini Brazilian Football Programme in 2011 and once again we are eager to begin another year’s partnership between the pre-school and the community.

“Both the teachers and students were excited to walk to the PHC Field to meet the coaches and to find out what it takes to become a Mini Brazilian.

“Students will be building strength in teamwork, listening skills, following directions, gross-motor skills, co-ordination, balancing skills, understanding self and developing simple to complex skills.

“We are proud to be a part of this programme as we strive to enhance the development of the whole child.”