Ten-year-old Jodie was referred to our Premier League Primary Stars programme by her school in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Her lack of self-confidence and communications skills was preventing her from engaging in school and extra-curricular activities. Jodie was also struggling to communicate her feelings, maintain friendships and regulate her behaviour.
Premier League Primary Stars is an innovative project that aims to change the lives of primary school children through the power of sport.
Since getting involved in the project, Jodie has made incredible progress. By participating in team-building sports activities, Jodie has been able to make new friends, learn new communication skills, rebuild relationships with teachers and live a healthy, more active lifestyle.
Jonathan Parker, a Learning Support Assistant, explained the difference the project has made to Jodie's life:
"I have seen a big change in Jodie's confidence thanks to her participation in sports. She thoroughly enjoys and looks forward to her football sessions from the Foundation every week. She even chooses to play football during break times, and I believe this is down to the Foundation's impact. She always works hard in every lesson and gives 110%."
By providing Jodie with the opportunity to learn new approaches to relationship building, she has been able to develop her confidence and improve her performance in school. Her newfound confidence means she is keener to participate in group activities across the school and happier to communicate with fellow pupils and teachers alike.
Jodie credits Primary Stars with giving her a platform to rebuild her relationships with teachers, enjoy school life and work hard in lessons. She says she is now proud to represent her school:
"I enjoy improving my football skills and having fun at the same time. I am a lot more confident and look forward to getting involved in the sessions. My favourite thing about Primary Stars is playing different games and activities every week and competing for my school in tournaments. It makes me feel really proud."