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Since supporting Djanogly Strelley Academy in September 2024 as part of the Nottingham Forest Community Trust’s delivery of the Premier League Primary Stars programme, coach Richard has made a significant and lasting impact on the pupils he works with.

His role goes far beyond teaching PE, using sport and mentorship as powerful tools to inspire confidence, improve wellbeing, and create meaningful connections with children who need it most.

Two pupils who have particularly flourished under his guidance are Kayden (Year 4) and Amelia (Year 6), whose personal journeys are powerful examples of how the Premier League Primary Stars programme can change young lives.

Kayden’s Story: From Disruption to Determination

When Richard first met Kayden, he was struggling with his emotions, often shouting in lessons, and finding it hard to stay calm or engage. He wasn’t interested in PE and would often refuse to take part.

Fast forward six months, and Kayden is now a completely different pupil in the PE environment. He looks forward to lessons, takes pride in helping set up equipment, and shows a real sense of belonging. Kayden also attends breakfast club, where his day starts positively with food, movement, and conversation – often kicking off with a chat with Richard.

A big part of this sense of pride comes from the school’s new PE kits, provided through the ‘Red Thread’ initiative, where Nottingham Forest and club owner Evangelos Marinakis donated over 2,000 kits to schools across the city and county. Kayden now wears his Nottingham Forest shirt for PE and sports matches, which he says makes him feel part of something special.

Kayden said: “I’m doing a lot better than I was. I’m not shouting anymore. Richard helps me calm down. He tells me what to do and helps me with the equipment.

“I love wearing the Forest shirt, it feels like I’m part of the team.”

Amelia’s Story: Growing in Confidence and Leadership

Amelia also found PE challenging at first, often lacking confidence and opting out of participation. She preferred to stay inside and avoid taking part.

With Richard’s encouragement and the supportive environment he creates, Amelia has transformed into an enthusiastic and confident pupil. She now volunteers to help set up, supports her peers, and fully participates in lessons.

Like Kayden, Amelia proudly wears the Nottingham Forest kit for every PE lesson. She shared how much it means to her to feel part of the wider Forest family and how the kit has helped boost her confidence.

“He’s [Richard] helpful and encourages us to get involved. Now I help others in PE and put the equipment out.

“I didn’t like PE before, but now I do. I love the Forest kit; it makes PE feel even more special.”

Richard’s Approach: More Than a Coach

Richard’s impact is built on trust, consistency, and relationships. Described by pupils as “fun”, “funny”, and “good at football,” he creates an environment where children feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Reflecting on his time with Kayden and Amelia, Richard shared: “Since being at the school in the last six months, these two children have come on no end.

“From refusing to join in or even say hello, to now being the first ones to come and find me in breakfast club, on the playground, or in the hall to say good morning and ask about my week.

“They tell me what they’ve been up to in class, and it’s a very humbling feeling to see where they started to where they are now. They still have their moments, as all children do, but the difference in six months is so pleasing to see.

“Their teachers say they can’t wait for Fridays now because they know I’m coming in to do PE with them.

“The kids absolutely love wearing the Forest kits. It gives them a sense of identity and pride. For some, it’s the first time they’ve ever had something like this; a proper kit to wear for PE and school matches.

“You can see how much it means to them.”

Thanks to initiatives like Premier League Primary Stars and the ‘Red Thread’, supported by Nottingham Forest Football Club and owner Evangelos Marinakis, pupils like Kayden and Amelia aren’t just participating, they’re thriving, feeling proud, and knowing they belong.

Richard then added: “It’s not just about PE, it’s about helping children believe in themselves, build relationships, and feel excited about school again. That’s the real goal.”