November 15, 2025
Anthony Gordon Inspires Students Through Harrison Foundation Partner Schools Programme
Newcastle United and England player Anthony Gordon recently paid a special visit to one of the Harrison Foundation’s Partner Schools, sharing his personal story and inspiring young people to believe in their potential.
The session, held at Benfield School in Newcastle, focused on teamwork, communication and personal development, which are all core values shared by the Harrison Foundation and our partner, the Newcastle United Foundation.
Anthony Gordon joined students in group activities and spoke candidly about his journey from grassroots football to representing his country. He talked about the challenges he has faced along the way, the importance of resilience and how staying focused helped him achieve his goals. Students were encouraged to ask questions about his career, reflect on their own ambitions and consider the steps they could take to reach them.
The visit formed part of the Partner Schools Programme, an initiative jointly supported by the Harrison Foundation and Newcastle United Foundation. The programme places dedicated Foundation staff in schools across the North East to provide teaching, wellbeing support and guidance to pupils who may be struggling with engagement or facing personal barriers to education. The aim is to help young people build the confidence, focus and skills they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Speaking after the visit, Daniel Harrison MBE, trustee of the Harrison Foundation, said:
“Sometimes students just need that extra little bit of support to gain confidence in themselves, and that’s what we’re delivering through the Partner Schools Programme. It was great to see the students working together in the lesson, and the surprise they got when Anthony arrived was great to see. It really underlined the message that the key to success is hard work and dedication.”
The Harrison Foundation, which funds more than 1,600 sessions annually across the region, partners with a wide range of charities and organisations to deliver meaningful opportunities to young people. Through the Partner Schools Programme, the Foundation continues its commitment to level the playing field, ensuring that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, has the chance to succeed.
Andy Foster, Director of Programmes and Impact at Newcastle United Foundation, added:
“Having someone like Anthony Gordon visit brings our work to life. He’s a relatable figure for many of the students, and his presence reinforces the message that success is achievable with determination and support. Our Partner Schools programme is designed to help young people build confidence and develop the skills they need to thrive – both in and out of the classroom.”
Anthony Gordon’s involvement highlights the strength of the partnership between the Harrison Foundation and Newcastle United Foundation, which continues to create positive, lasting change across the region. Beyond the football pitch, he previously earned the Professional Footballers’ Association Community Champion Award for his contribution to North East causes and has volunteered at the Foundation’s Community Pantry, as well as spent time meeting refugees and young migrants adjusting to new lives in the region.
His visit to Benfield School is the latest example of how the combined efforts of the Harrison Foundation and Newcastle United Foundation are helping to empower the next generation. By connecting young people with inspiring role models and providing structured support, the Partner Schools Programme is helping students recognise their own potential and believe that with hard work and determination, they too can achieve their ambitions.