Story added: 12th May 2026

Córdoba and Slimane celebrate Active Canaries with local school community

Norwich City duo José Córdoba and Anis Ben Slimane made a surprise appearance to Hethersett VC Primary School on Tuesday 28 April as they joined a Year 6 class taking part in the Foundation’s Active Canaries programme, delivered in partnership with Norse Group. 

Active Canaries helps young children learn about healthy and active lifestyles through interactive classroom-based sessions and football‑themed activities, and Hethersett VC Primary is one of 74 schools involved this year. They joined our virtual live assembly, which engaged more than 12,000 pupils, completed the 50/50 Active Canaries class challenge, and previously took part in the Norwich City Schools Leagues at The Nest. 

 The Year 6 class were in the middle of an Active Canaries practical session with Foundation staff on Tuesday, designing their own football warm‑up, when Córdoba and Slimane arrived to surprise pupils. 

The players jumped straight into the session before heading back into the classroom for a Q&A, where they spoke about everything from staying active and eating well to handling pressure, building confidence and making it as a professional footballer.

The afternoon wrapped up with photos and autographs – a brilliant end to an unforgettable visit for pupils at Hethersett VC Primary School.

“We’ve been incredibly proud of the success of the Active Canaries programme this year,” commented Clare Jordan, Marketing Manager at Norse Group Catering. 

“From a Norse Group perspective, it’s been fantastic to see the real impact it’s having in schools, bringing together physical activity, education, and nutritious school lunches to support healthier lifestyles for children and young people. 

“Our strategic partnership with the Community Sports Foundation, alongside the engagement from Norwich City Football Club, has been central to that success. Moments like this, where first team players surprise pupils during a lesson, are truly special. By combining great food with opportunities to be active, we’re helping to build confidence, encourage participation, and support young people in developing habits that will benefit them long into the future.”

Asa Saunders, Head of Schools at the Community Sports Foundation, added: “Seeing José and Anis walk into the session was a moment the pupils and staff won’t forget.

“Active Canaries is all about helping young people build healthy habits in a fun, engaging way, and having first‑team players reinforce those messages makes a huge impact. We’re incredibly proud of the commitment schools like Hethersett show throughout the year, and visits like this highlight exactly why the programme matters.”