Today’s ’12 Days of Christmas’ story focuses on PL Inspires, a programme run for young people which aims to help them reach their potential as they move through education, improving their personal skills and knowledge as they do so.
A recent link-up with Coppice Performing Arts School led by Education Officer Liam Turner benefitted two students in particular, Ethan Howell and Jack Regan, as described by teacher Tony Holdcroft.
“When we found out about the new PL Inspires sessions that Wolves Foundation were putting on, we chose lads who we felt needed extra support for various reasons who would appreciate the chance to do something different in and out of school,” he explains.
“At the start of the programme a few of the lads were reluctant to take part or speak up but with the support and guidance that Liam gave them, along with Lamar (also from Wolves Foundation), they have thrived as a group and collectively.
“Ethan lost his mom when he was 11 and had been reluctant to take part in things at school, but he has grown in stature during the last few weeks and now seems confident in whatever task he is set.
“He now seems to be calmer around the other lads and listens to their ideas as well as his own.
“Another lad who has thrived whilst doing the programme has been Jack Regan, who has been transformed into a confident young man.
“When he was first asked to talk in front of the group he was reluctant and shy, but now he is also showing more confidence and willingness to try any task he is asked to do.”
Both Ethan and Jack also joined in as the Foundation carried out some voluntary work for the Canal & River Trust prior to Christmas.
“Whilst working with the Canal & River Trust, we all witnessed how the lads had become good friends and worked side by side instructing each other and helping each other out,” added Mr Holdcroft.
“This programme has been an eye opener for the lads and other students would benefit from doing this as well.”
Jonathan Warburton is Wolves Foundation’s Education and Skills Manager who oversees the charity’s education delivery.
“I have seen at first-hand the impact PL Inspires can have on young people in increasing participants’ confidence, self-esteem, communication and social skills,” said Jonathan.
“Liam’s work with Ethan and Jack over the last few months really highlights some of these achievements where our bespoke programme uses the power of football and sport to engage our young participants.”
