Football Conference Inspires Young Female Leaders to Drive Change

The empowering event – which is a part of the Barclays Girls’ Football School Partnerships with England Football – engaged students from Year 7, 8 and 9  - including from Lionheart Schools, Martin High and Humphrey Perkins - in both theory-based workshops and practical training on the new 3G pitch at Cedars, where they learned how to promote, deliver and officiate a wide variety of football activities.

Alongside their own training, students were also fortunate to hear from Olivia Hancock, a young women’s football advocate, who is currently undertaking a community sport coaching apprenticeship with Leicester City in the Community. She delivered an inspiring speech about her own journey and her passion for promoting women’s football.

Reflecting on the day, Maddie, a student from Martin High School said:

“This event has shown me that football is for everyone, and I feel excited to take what I’ve learned back to my school to help get more girls involved. It’s given me the confidence to lead and make a real difference.”

James Rolfe, Associate Principal at The Cedars Academy, also praised the event’s impact:

“This conference was an incredible opportunity for our students to develop leadership skills and make a tangible impact on the future of girls’ football in their schools and within the wider community.

“The Lionheart Educational Trust is proud to support initiatives that encourage leadership, inclusivity and empowerment through sport.”

Through their participation, students will play a pivotal role in expanding girls’ football opportunities at their schools, breaking down barriers, and fostering long-term change. As part of Barclays Game On – GO Lead, each school also received access to teaching and coaching resources, along with a girls’ football activator kit, further supporting their mission to grow the sport.

This marks another step forward in ensuring equal opportunities for young girls to lead both on and off the pitch, ensuring a brighter and more inclusive future for women’s football.