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Sport possesses an incredible power to build confidence and unlock potential. Through our delivery of the Premier League Primary Stars programme, our coaches work closely with local schools across Nottinghamshire to help children thrive inside and outside the classroom.

An inspiring example of this is the incredible progress made by Year 1 pupil, Mija, during her time with our Lead Coach, Harry, at Blue Bell Hill Primary School.

When Mija first started Year 1, she faced a significant personal hurdle. Naturally very shy and reserved, she was incredibly hesitant to join in during her PE lessons. Rather than getting involved with her classmates, Mija preferred to stand on the sidelines, quietly observing the activities from a distance.

Recognising that she needed a comfortable space to find her feet, Coach Harry introduced a structured, step-by-step approach tailored specifically to her needs.

To build Mijas’s confidence without overwhelming her, Harry began by assigning her independent tasks where she could practice skills at her own pace. As she became more comfortable, Harry gently transitioned her into paired work, matching Mija with a trusted peer she felt safe around.

This gradual approach allowed Mija to integrate into the lessons her own terms. Over the weeks, her confidence blossomed. Quiet observation turned into active participation as she began fully immersing herself in group work and contributing ideas to her class.

Today, Mija’s transformation is complete. Not only is she fully engaged in every PE sessions, but she has also stepped us a class leader – frequently volunteering to demonstrate activities to her peers and confidently taking on the role of team captain. Her newfound confidence has radiated far beyond the playing field, with school staff noting a massive improvement in her overall engagement and participation in wider school life.

Harry, Premier League Primary Stars Lead Coach at Nottingham Forest Community Trust, said: “When Mija first started Year 1, she was very shy and preferred to watch rather than take part in PE. We focused on small, gradual steps to help her feel comfortable, starting with individual work and then slowly introducing group activities.

Over time, she began joining in more, and now she fully participates in lessons, takes on roles like team captain, and even demonstrates activities in front of her classmates. It’s been brilliant to see her progress step by step”.

Premier League Primary Stars is the Premier League’s primary school education programme. Funded by the Premier League, through the Premier League Foundation, the programmes uses the appearl of football to help children to be active and develop essential life skills.

Mija’s story perfectly highlights how the power of football and positive mentorship can help young people build the resilience and self-esteem necessary for long-term growth.

To find out how your school can get involved with the Premier League Primary Stars programme, please contact Nottingham Forest Community Trust’s Schools Manager, Jordan Ferrer, at Jordan.ferrer@nottinghamforest.co.uk.