Halewood Academy pupils have been benefitting from the Football Beyond Borders mentoring project (FBB).
A registered charity since 2014, FBB works with youngsters aged 12 to 16, from areas of social and economic disadvantage passionate about football but disengaged with school. It helps them finish with skills and grades through a football themed social and emotional learning curriculum.
Delivered by relatable role models combined with therapeutic interventions, Halewood Academy has been involved since 2021. There’s 126 programs supporting over 2000 young people across England.
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Jack Reynolds, CEO of FBB, told the ECHO: "We're asking for an education system which provides head teachers with resources to support our most vulnerable students to thrive in mainstream school. After what young people experienced during Covid, it feels like the bare minimum we should do for them."
FBB began running football sessions in a range of settings in schools and community outreach programs in South London. They soon realised this work could make maximum impact working with schools to engage early teens.
It costs £33k annually to attend a Pupil Referral Unit and about £5k for a child to stay in mainstream school. Around 5% of students educated in alternative provision achieved a pass in English and Maths compared to 58% supported in school by FBB making it 11 times more likely to obtain a GCSE in English and Maths.
Halewood Academy head of Year 8, Mr Konsa said: "FBB has been a wonderful space for the girls, it’s given them a space to be themselves, feel a real sense of belonging and create strong friendships with each other. I have seen a particular improvement in the girls' attitude towards their teachers in recent weeks.
"FBB are committed to engaging parents in a positive way. This has been a huge support to me”.
With 98% of young people finishing their year in mainstream school is a mark of the charity's success in early intervention. The last term of 2022 FBB delivered over 60 hours of classroom and football sessions at Halewood Academy.
Pupils created a squad manifesto outlining how they want to interact with each other and their goals for the year. After identifying interests, assets and strengths they explore what shapes their identities by reflecting on similarities and differences within the squad and how they can positively impact others.
Ava, 13 said: “I enjoy all the topics and new skills we’re learning. Everyone listens to each other’s opinions. It’s good we can share with the group and of course I love football.”
Lucy, 13 said: “I began to develop my confidence a lot since I started because I’ve begun to feel more comfortable in my classes which helps with how much I learn”.
Millie, 13 added: “I enjoy it so much and look forward to coming every week. It makes my day.”
One parent said about their son: “I had no negative calls from school and he’s had three tick loads on his card. I can’t tell you how proud I am to hear all the positive words. I’ve seen a massive difference in his behaviour within school and at home. So, thank you for all that you do”.
For information about their work visit HERE
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