In September 2024, Cardiff City FC Community Foundation’s Further Education provision welcomed Alys, a 17-year-old whose journey to learning had been filled with challenges. Alys was in Year 7 when the Covid-19 pandemic hit – a key developmental stage that was suddenly disrupted.

Alongside this, she faced personal struggles including panic disorders, severe anxiety, and overwhelming difficulties in social situations. Her condition deteriorated to the point where even leaving the house became a major hurdle, limiting her interaction with friends and peers and leaving her reliant on her close family circle.

The NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Sport & Activity course at the Community Foundation marked a turning point in Alys’ educational journey. From being unable to stay in a classroom for more than an hour without her mum, she has now become an active member of her cohort, benefitting from their non-traditional learning environment where pupils can reach their full potential.

Recognising the depth of her struggles, the Foundation’s wellbeing team created a personalised plan. Small group sessions were introduced to provide a safe, supportive environment where Alys could gradually re-engage with learning without feeling overwhelmed.

Cardiff City FC Community Foundation, the official charity of Cardiff City Football Club, prides itself on creating a welcoming and supportive environment where students can thrive. The course is run in partnership with Cardiff and Vale College and provides learners with an insight into the practicalities of the sports industry, using regular futsal as an engagement tool.

Today, Alys attends classroom sessions at the Foundation twice a week from 9am–12pm, alongside self-study at home. Her determination and resilience have been remarkable, and she is currently on track to achieve a Distinction on the course.

A key part of Alys’ progress has been applying strategies from her Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), enabling her to step outside her comfort zone at her own pace. One huge milestone has been joining girls’ futsal training on Tuesdays - something she once thought would never be possible after years of isolation from peers.

Alys has also taken part in planning and delivering coaching sessions for a local primary school as part of her work experience and proudly attended the Cardiff and Vale Awards to celebrate achievements with her peers – another milestone in her social confidence.

Outside of her studies, Alys has secured a part-time role coaching with Rugby Tots in the evenings and at weekends. This opportunity has allowed her to continue building confidence, meeting new people, and developing valuable skills.

The team are immensely proud of her dedication and achievement so far. As Alys looks ahead to her second year with at the provision, with flourishing aspirations to continue to university, she and her family are celebrating a future they once never imagined possible.

Today, Alys attends classroom sessions at the Foundation twice a week from 9am–12pm, alongside self-study at home. Her determination and resilience have been remarkable, and she is currently on track to achieve a Distinction on the course.

A key part of Alys’ progress has been applying strategies from her Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), enabling her to step outside her comfort zone at her own pace. One huge milestone has been joining girls’ futsal training on Tuesdays - something she once thought would never be possible after years of isolation from peers.

Alys has also taken part in planning and delivering coaching sessions for a local primary school as part of her work experience and proudly attended the Cardiff and Vale Awards to celebrate achievements with her peers – another milestone in her social confidence.

Outside of her studies, Alys has secured a part-time role coaching with Rugby Tots in the evenings and at weekends. This opportunity has allowed her to continue building confidence, meeting new people, and developing valuable skills.

The team are immensely proud of her dedication and achievement so far. As Alys looks ahead to her second year with at the provision, with flourishing aspirations to continue to university, she and her family are celebrating a future they once never imagined possible.

Our Level 3 learners had a fantastic year. 87% completed the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity, and the rest gained other valuable qualifications. 100% of Year 1 learners, like Alys, progressed to Year 2, with high marks predicted across the cohort.

Jody Parry, Wellbeing and Inclusion Tutor said:

“I'm incredibly proud of Alys's progress. Her journey from a place of profound anxiety and isolation to a thriving, engaged student is truly inspiring. Her courage and dedication is nothing short of remarkable. Alys is a shining example of what can be achieved, and I am privileged to have been part of her journey.”

In Alys’ words:

“I’m so thankful for the Foundation’s wellbeing support – it’s a miracle that I’ve come this far. I really appreciate Jody always being there for me. It’s more than just a job to her – she really cares. She gives more than a teacher and puts her heart into it, no matter our needs. I just want to say thank you."