Story added: 30th July 2026

Charlie’s Tackle Learning Story

Charlie’s connection with Norwich City Community Sports Foundation stretches back several years – through inclusive programmes, Development Centre fixtures, and the Foundation’s Tackle Learning provision, delivered using the core values and structure of Premier League Inspires.  

Mainstream school was a difficult place for Charlie. Large, noisy classrooms made it hard for him to focus, and he struggled to access the support he needed. By Year 8, he was withdrawing from lessons, losing confidence, and finding it harder each week to stay engaged. When he joined Tackle Learning, everything shifted.  

“Tackle Learning is an alternative provision for secondary school students – a breakaway from mainstream school for those who need something different,” said Owen Woodhouse, Inclusion Development Officer.   

“For Charlie, football was the hook. He walked in with his shoulders tight and his head down, but the moment he realised this was a space built around the game, you could see him open up.” 

The programme blends indoor and outdoor sessions, using football as the thread that connects written work, practical activity, and personal development. That structure – shaped by Premier League Inspires – gave Charlie something he hadn’t had for a long time: a place where learning felt possible. 

“Charlie’s a good football player, but what really stands out is his determination,” Owen added. 

“Once he trusted the environment, he started trying again. His communication improved, he began working with others, and he showed real resilience. He’s built strong connections with staff and his peers, and the progress he’s made is huge. 

“By focusing on the values of communication, teamwork and resilience, we’ve supported a number of young people through this programme over the last few years – and Charlie is a brilliant example of what can happen when a young person is given the right space to grow.” 

A Space to Grow

The programme’s flexible structure – shaped by Premier League Inspires – gave Charlie space to learn in ways that suited him.   

“It’s basically a space where you can step away from school if you need to,” Charlie explained.   

 “You can learn in the classroom or outside – wherever works best. Coming here has helped me build resilience, improve my mental health, and feel more confident.   

“The staff are amazing – I can talk to them about anything. I look forward to the sessions every week and they give me that freedom to express myself. 

“In school, I felt like I was always behind. Here, they meet you where you are. They don’t rush you. They help you get back on track.” 

That support helped Charlie reintegrate into school for a period – a milestone that showed just how far he’d come. He has since moved to a new alternative provision offering home‑school tutoring, giving him the flexibility to regulate his emotions, take breaks when needed, and complete his work without the pressures of a loud classroom. 

Alongside his education, Charlie represented the Foundation’s Development Centre, playing regular fixtures and continuing to grow his confidence on the pitch. His next steps are either progressing into college or beginning military preparation – options he now feels ready to pursue. 

The Premier League Inspires impact

Premier League Inspires underpins the ethos of Tackle Learning, providing structure, resources, and a values led framework that supports delivery.   

“Premier League Inspires is massive for young people who don’t fully fit into the school system – which is completely normal,” Owen said. 

“We work in 12-week blocks and meet the young person at their level. It allows them to progress at their own pace, in their own way.”    

For Charlie, that meant having a safe, consistent place to learn, grow, and reset each week.  

Charlie sums it up simply: “This place helped me find myself again.”