Award-winning football author inspires Swanmore pupils

Children's author Matt Oldfield visited Swanmore College as part of Literacy Week, sharing his passion for football, reading and writing with pupils.

Celebrating reading through a love of football

Swanmore College welcomed award-winning children's author Matt Oldfield on Monday, 12 October 2026, as part of the College's Literacy Week celebrations.

Matt, whose books have sold more than one million copies worldwide, delivered special assemblies to Year 7 and Year 8 pupils, sharing how his childhood love of football inspired him to become a writer.

Author Matt Oldfield addressing pupils in the school hall during an interactive presentation.

Pupils raising their hands to ask questions during author Matt Oldfield's talk in the hall, with book covers projected on the screen behind him.

During the assemblies, pupils discovered more about life as a professional author, the inspiration behind Matt's stories and the creative process involved in bringing his books to life. They also had the opportunity to ask questions about his experiences and writing career.

The excitement continued during both breaktimes, when Matt hosted book-signing sessions in the College's Reading Room. The sessions were well attended by pupils from across all five year groups, from Year 7 through to Year 11.

A line of pupils waiting in the school library under international flag bunting during a book signing session with author Matt Oldfield.

Author Matt Oldfield signing a copy of his book "Kane v. Bellingham" at a table in the library during his visit to Swanmore College.

Author Matt Oldfield signing a book for a pupil during his school visit.

Matt is best known for his Unbelievable Football series, which won the 2020 Children's Sports Book of the Year award, and as co-author of the bestselling Ultimate Football Heroes series. His work also includes the Johnny Ball: Football Genius series and a collaboration with England Lioness Beth Mead on her children's book Roar, winner of the 2024 Children's Sports Book of the Year award.

Alongside his writing, Matt works with schools and organisations including the National Literacy Trust and the National Football Museum, delivering football-themed literacy workshops to encourage young people to engage with reading.

His visit formed part of Swanmore College's wider Literacy Week programme, celebrating the importance of reading and writing and highlighting how literacy connects with pupils' interests and passions.

A huge thank you to Matt for taking the time to visit Swanmore and sharing his enthusiasm for football, books and storytelling with our pupils!

A pupil holding copies of books by Matt Oldfield, including "Kane v. Bellingham" and "Who is the Ultimate Premier League GOAT?" during an author visit event.