Jamie and Josh were nominated by Senior Youth and School Intervention coordinator Holly Kinsella, for their fantastic commitment towards our Onside Programme!

Funded by the PLPFA, the Onside programme is a targeted intervention embedded into secondary schools across the Northwest. Working with participants identified by their school lead with differing social, emotional, behavioural and well-being needs.

When they first joined the programme, both Jamie and Josh faced considerable personal and academic challenges. Teachers expressed doubts that they would even attend the programme, let alone thrive in it. But both boys have far exceeded expectations. They successfully completed their Sports Leadership Level 2 qualification—a remarkable achievement for students once considered unlikely to engage.

Josh, in particular, was on a reduced timetable due to aggressive behaviour toward staff and peers, often ending up in the inclusion unit for fighting. Jamie, too, was struggling to find a stable path due to lack of confidence in the school system. But the Onside programme became their turning point. Through consistent support, structured mentorship, and a focus on personal development, they began to reshape not only their school experience but their lives. Josh: “I have learnt how to work in a team. I didn’t speak to some of the people in this group and now we all know each other.” Jamie “I feel more confident going into college as I know I will be able to talk to people I don’t know and make friends.”

Their attendance is a clear marker of this change.

Attendance Improvement:

August ’24 – December ’24

Jamie: 70.9%

Josh: 48.15%

January ’25 – April ’25

Jamie: 78.26%

Josh: 65.22%

Both pupils have 100% attendance at all available Onside sessions.

These figures tell a powerful story of increased engagement and a renewed commitment to school.

The positive change extends far beyond the classroom. Jamie and Josh have developed stronger, healthier relationships with their peers and are no longer viewed with fear or suspicion—instead, they are approached with respect and openness. Both boys now say they have more friends and are learning the true value of connection over conflict.

Perhaps the most powerful testament to their development is how they are now giving back. Jamie and Josh have spoken with younger students about their past struggles and how inclusion affected their school lives—using their own stories to inspire others and warn of paths best avoided. This shows not only self-awareness, but leadership. Josh spoke about his aspirations: “I will use the communication and teamwork skills to support my goal of starting my own business. Doing the Enterprise Challenge with the Kings Trust was so helpful in teaching me how to price and restock, run a business.”

Jen Simms, Head of Pastoral at Dixons Fazakerley, said:

'The transformation of Jamie and Josh is nothing short of inspiring. From hopefully obtaining GSCE's and staying in school for their final year, they’ve proven what’s possible when the right support meets the right attitude.’

Due to their extraordinary growth, resilience, and dedication throughout the Onside programme, Josh and Jamie are truly deserving of this award. Their journey is one of real transformation—from students who were at risk of permanent exclusion, to young role models who now embody the values of Liverpool Football Club; Unity, Dignity, Ambition, and Commitment.