Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson has praised the work of Sunderland AFC’s Foundation of Light after seeing first-hand how the Premier League Inspires programme is transforming young lives in her constituency.
During a visit to Sandhill View Academy, Phillipson met pupils benefiting from the programme, which uses football to boost attendance, behaviour and confidence.
This year alone, over 70% of students have improved their attendance through mentoring sessions, with more than 850 pupils taking part – the highest number to complete the programme across the region. Delivered in partnership with the University of Sunderland, these sessions also challenge inequalities and break down stereotypes.
The Premier League Inspires programme, now in its sixth year, uses the power of football to help young people aged 11–18 to engage positively in education and build skills for future life and work.
Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education and MP for Houghton and Sunderland South, said: “It’s inspiring to see the difference the Premier League Inspires programme is making right here in Sunderland.
“By using football as a force for good, SAFC’s Foundation of Light is helping young people improve their attendance, build confidence, and re-engage with education. These are the kinds of innovative, community-rooted approaches that change lives and open doors to brighter futures.”
Lesley Spuhler OBE, Chief Executive of the Foundation of Light, added: “We know how important it is to support young people who are at risk of disengaging with education. Premier League Inspires is a powerful example of how football can break down barriers, build confidence and provide opportunities for brighter futures.
“At a time when too many young people risk becoming ‘lost children’ through poor attendance, this programme is helping to bring them back into school, re-engage with learning and realise their potential. We’re proud to be working hand in hand with our schools to make a lasting difference.”
Alex White, Chief Executive of the Premier League Charitable Fund, added: “Thanks to the work of the Foundation of Light and more than 50 professional football club charities, Premier League Inspires continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people across England and Wales.
“An increase in Premier League investment has enabled us to expand the number of club charities we are able to support to deliver the programme, helping to ensure that more young people feel connected, empowered, and inspired to thrive in school. This strengthened approach builds on recent findings from Sheffield Hallam University, which revealed that nearly 80% of participating schools saw a reduction in pupil absenteeism due to the programme. By providing tailored educational resources, mentoring, and enriching opportunities, Premier League Inspires can continue to help young people across the country to build confidence, develop essential life skills, and stay engaged in education and training.”
The Foundation of Light, Sunderland AFC’s official charity, engages with over 23,000 people every year across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham. Using the power of football, to invest in the communities we serve and to improve the education, health, wellbeing and happiness of people, no matter who they are.
Foundation of Light is proud to celebrate over seven years of partnership with the Harrison Centre for Social Mobility, working together to create life-changing opportunities for young people and adults across our community.
The Sports Development Officer is taking on the Thessaloniki Night Half Marathon next month, before turning his attention to a 50km ultramarathon in the New Year, with a charity football match to be arranged between.
Foundation of Light was delighted to welcome Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Jeanelle de Gruchy, to the Beacon of Light, a visit she described as “perfect”.