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Being dynamic, flexible, and open to change is central to how Nottingham Forest Community Trust delivers Premier League Inspires. Now in its second year at Redhill Academy, the programme has evolved to better meet the needs of students, with the introduction of a football-themed leaderboard system designed to strengthen engagement, attainment, and retention.

Each student is assigned a “team” and earns or loses points based on behaviour, effort, and achievement, tracked through ClassCharts. These scores are displayed weekly in a league table that mirrors the Premier League, complete with positions, points totals, and a relegation zone. The familiar football format makes progress visible, relatable, and competitive.

Students actively monitor their position throughout the week. Those who reach the top of the table earn a mentoring session, while those who fall into the relegation zone miss out the following week. This clear structure creates accountability and provides a strong incentive to meet weekly targets. An end-of-term reward for the overall league winner further reinforces consistency and long-term goal setting.

The impact has been significant. Teachers report improved behaviour, greater focus in lessons, and stronger engagement across the cohort. The competitive element adds energy and purpose, encouraging students to take ownership of their progress both inside and outside the classroom. The leaderboard does not simply reward performance. It promotes reflection, resilience, and personal responsibility.

Weekly mentoring sessions led by Matt Muir, Premier League Inspires Mentor, complement the system, covering topics such as mental health, perseverance, and resilience. Students explore real-life examples of individuals who have overcome challenges before reflecting on how those lessons apply to their own lives. Each week, they set personal goals and review their progress, embedding habits that support long-term development.

Matt Muir said: “The league table has transformed how the students engage with the programme.

“They check their position daily, they understand exactly what’s expected of them, and they know there are real consequences and rewards. It’s not just about being top of the table, it’s about building consistency, resilience, and taking responsibility for their own progress.

“Seeing that shift in mindset week on week has been incredibly powerful.”

By adapting delivery and embedding a creative, football-inspired framework, Premier League Inspires at Redhill Academy is not only increasing engagement but also driving attainment and improving retention. The result is a programme that motivates young people to lead their own progress, both in school and beyond.