The LA Galaxy football team in Los Angeles, US, has announced plans for the LA Galaxy Science of Soccer scheme, designed to empower school teachers to increase participation in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) through football.

Prior to the Galaxy’s MLS game against FC Dallas on 20 September, the first “teacher camp” will be hosted at the team’s home ground, designed to encourage kids’ interest in STEM subjects, while using football to drive engagement.

Galaxy has teamed with non-profit group Science of Sport to develop a curriculum consistent with the state of California’s Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core Standards, part of which uses football demonstrations as dynamic hands-on, inquiry-based lessons for STEM subjects.

“The LA Galaxy is extremely proud and excited to launch a unique programme for MLS teams that will offer a fun and dynamic way of teaching and learning these STEM subjects,” said Zach Wells, manager of brand and fan development for LA Galaxy. “It is vital to highlight STEM now because it will affect the future of Southern California businesses affiliated with science, technology, engineering and math, who will be looking to hire proficient students down the road.”

20 teachers will attend the first camp at the StubHub Center, with each learning at least five classroom lessons and the correlating soccer demonstrations. The teachers will receive a kit with all of the necessary materials to implement the lessons in their classroom or after school programme.