Football Journeys School Programme Returns with Energy and Impact
The Football Journeys School Programme has made excellent progress since the Easter half-term, with students demonstrating great commitment and enthusiasm throughout their sessions. Participants have been working towards achieving accreditations in Developing Own Interpersonal Skills, Introduction to Peer Support Skills, and Active Citizenship in the Local Community, developing valuable life skills that will support them both in and beyond the classroom.
On the creative side of things, we mostly focused on the accreditation. This is the part that gives the students their leadership qualification. To achieve this, they must answer a series of questions from three different units, including their interpersonal skills, their contributions within their communities and peer-to-peer support.
A significant milestone was reached this term as both schools completed their first Football Journeys exchange event, with Kensington Aldridge Academy hosting City of London Academy. The first of two exchange visits provided students with the opportunity to visit a different part of London and experience it through the perspective of their host school. These exchanges are a key element of the programme, helping young people broaden their understanding of the city, connect with peers from different backgrounds, and challenge perceptions through shared experiences. The exchange was a fantastic success, strengthening relationships between the two schools and providing memorable experiences that supported both personal and social development.
A huge thank you to all the volunteers and staff who supported the day. Your time, enthusiasm, and commitment helped create a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved and played a vital role in the event's success.
We look forward to the second exchange event and to seeing students continue to build on the excellent progress they have made throughout the programme.
From Ideas to Impact: Chloe Booth at the Mission Economy Summit
Earlier this month I went to the School for Social Entrepreneurs Mission Economy Summit to meet some like-minded people and find out how they’re feeling about the future. It was an interesting day, getting some insights into local government procurement processes, discussing what systems change looks like for grassroots projects, and opening my mind to the opportunities that AI can bring to the social impact sector.
Overall the mood was pragmatic but positive, and I was reminded yet again how much society relies on the passion and commitment of people who just believe that things can, and should, be better.
One of the ways we stay streamlined at FJ is to forgo an office space in favour of remote working, but sometimes that can be lonely! Being out and around good people was a nice boost and I left the Summit with a greater sense of possibility, plus some new contacts whose expertise will be very helpful in our drive to grow FJ’s corporate partnerships. Speaking of which, if you’re interested in learning how a partnership with your business could change the life of a young person, get in touch!
A Day of Vision, Leadership and Inspiration at Wembley Stadium
Set against the iconic backdrop of Wembley Stadium, a venue synonymous with ambition, history and world-class performance, our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) gathered for a powerful and forward-thinking workshop that will help shape the future of Football Journeys.
Thanks to the generosity from Wembley Stadium Foundation, we were hosted in one of their executive boxes, an incredible space overlooking the legendary pitch. For many of our young people, simply being in that environment was inspiring in itself. It created a sense of occasion, reinforcing that their voices, ideas and leadership truly matter at the highest level.
Our Youth Advisory Board, made up of senior Football Journeys Ambassadors, represents the next generation of leaders within our programme. This session was designed to give them real ownership, inviting them to actively shape the direction of the Ambassador Programme over the next three years.
The workshop was led collaboratively by myself, Max and Laroque, with Carlos Salvador opening the session by setting the tone and outlining the vision. The day was further enriched by a guest contributor from Compost London, who delivered an engaging brainstorming exercise that challenged the group to think creatively, strategically, and with purpose.
Throughout the day, the YAB members demonstrated exceptional maturity, creativity and insight. They explored what the Ambassador Programme should stand for, how it can grow, and how it can deliver even greater impact for young people across communities.
More importantly, the experience gave them:
A genuine voice in decision-making, empowering them to influence real organisational strategy
Confidence in leadership and communication, presenting ideas in a professional environment
Exposure to professional settings, helping them visualise future career pathways
A sense of ownership and belonging, reinforcing their importance within Football Journeys
The ideas generated were not only impressive, they were actionable, ambitious and aligned with our mission. These contributions will directly inform the development of our three-year Ambassador Programme plan.
It was more than just a workshop. It was a moment of growth, inspiration, and alignment, proving once again that when young people are given the right platform, environment and belief, they rise to the occasion.
THE FOOTBALL JOURNEYS CHARITY CUP Where Business Meets Purpose
Excitement is building at Football Journeys as we look ahead to one of the standout moments of our calendar, The Football Journeys Charity Cup 2026.
Taking place at the iconic Loftus Road Stadium, home of Queens Park Rangers, this is more than just a football tournament. It’s a powerful coming together of London’s corporate community, united by a shared goal: to create real social impact for young people across the capital.
The day promises:
Fast-paced, competitive football in a professionally organised format
Unmatched networking with 200+ professionals and decision-makers
A vibrant, purpose-driven atmosphere
The chance to directly support programmes that empower young people through football and film
This is where team building meets impact, and where businesses can align performance with purpose.
Why It Matters
Every team that takes part helps fuel the mission of Football Journeys, bringing young people from different communities together, building confidence, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities that last far beyond the pitch.
Your participation doesn’t just create a memorable day for your team, it contributes to shaping the future of the next generation.
A Unique Experience Like No Other Imagine your team stepping onto a professional pitch, competing in a high-energy tournament alongside other leading businesses, all while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Get Involved
We’re inviting corporate teams across London to be part of something special.
Whether you’re looking to:
Strengthen your team culture
Deliver meaningful CSR impact
Connect with like-minded organisations
Or simply experience football in a truly unforgettable setting
Spaces are limited and demand is high.
If your organisation wants to enter a team, sponsor the event, or find out more: