Fulham FC Foundation’s Premier League Inspires participants recently hosted an event at Ark Globe Academy, focused on supporting the physical and mental health of the female students at their school. Our Inspires students, as part of the Changemaker Programme, where young women are encouraged to develop their confidence and leadership skills, took on the task of arranging a #MoveYourWay event for their schoolmates. This consisted of a football tournament for Ark Globe Academy’s female students in Years 7, 8 and 9, held on the school’s sports ground.
Understanding the importance of mental health, our Changemaker graduates also created an anonymous question box as part of the football event. Recognising that many young students might feel too shy or hesitant to ask certain questions in person, the box provided a safe and discreet way for them to voice their concerns.
Throughout the day, those taking part in the event were encouraged to submit their questions anonymously, with these then addressed by a panel of guest speakers during a Q&A session. Our guest panel, made up of Fulham FC Foundation and school staff, as well as representatives from the Met Police, provided practical advice, emphasising that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
“It was fun, from the point of drafting ideas to actually running the social action, I had fun supporting the girls on the day and it allowed me to practise my communication skills, as my role was managing group girls and helping with what they need. I am looking forward to something like this in the future.” - Lexie, Premier League Inspires student.
“It was wonderful to see the event in full flow after many weeks of planning. The Inspires girls took great pride in delivering a well organised event and for bringing 40 girls across Year 7, 8 and 9 together to play football and meet some inspirational women. What a fantastic way to raise the aspirations of our female students.” - Mr Bardetti, Assistant Principal, Ark Globe Academy.
Following the success of this inaugural #MoveYourWay event, our cohort of Premier League Inspires participants plan to continue this on a yearly basis, promoting both physical and mental wellbeing around their school.
From everyone at Fulham FC Foundation, we want to congratulate these students on the #MoveYourWay event, using their confidence and leadership to enable social action in their school and demonstrating the power of young leaders to effect meaningful change.
With their passion and dedication, these young women are not just changemakers in the classroom, but also in their communities!
To find out more about Fulham’s Premier League Inspires programme, and the impact it could have in your school, please email schools@fulhamfc.com.
