September 5, 2025
Building on Success in Our Schools Partnership
As a new school year begins, the Harrison Foundation is proud to welcome students back to classrooms across Newcastle, where our partnership with the Newcastle United Foundation (NUF) continues to support those who need it most. September is always a moment for a fresh start, but for pupils in our six partner schools, it is also a chance to re-engage with a programme that is helping to transform lives.
Last year, the first full year of our three-year joint secondary schools programme, delivered real and measurable results. A total of 945 young people engaged across the six participating schools – Benfield School, Gosforth Academy, North Gosforth Academy, Jesmond Park Academy, George Stephenson, and Gosforth Junior High Academy.
One of the most important achievements was the reach of the programme among students with additional needs. 380 pupils with special educational needs or disabilities took part, showing that the partnership is reaching those who benefit most from tailored support.
The programme also delivered tangible outcomes in qualifications and skills. 163 King’s Trust Achieve qualifications were awarded alongside Sports Leaders awards, giving students nationally recognised credentials. In addition, 474 pupils engaged in social action projects, embedding a culture of civic responsibility and showing young people the value of contributing to their communities.
The impact extended well beyond formal qualifications and independent feedback from students revealed that:
- 93% reported feeling inspired and engaged
- 90% reported increased self-confidence
- 89% reported improved mental and physical wellbeing
These figures demonstrate that the programme is addressing not only academic skills but also the wider personal development that is so crucial for long-term success.
The joint Harrison Foundation and Newcastle United Foundation partnership was established to create dedicated, dual-branded classrooms in each of the six schools, staffed by full-time NUF education specialists, to ensure that we are offering focused support to students who might otherwise fall through the cracks.
As we welcome students back this September, our focus is firmly on building on last year’s success. With proven engagement levels, strong outcomes and enthusiastic feedback, we are confident that the partnership is making a meaningful difference. The challenge for the year ahead is to keep this momentum going and extend the reach of the programme so that even more students can benefit.
At the Harrison Foundation, we believe education is the key to unlocking opportunity. Our joint schools partnership with the Newcastle United Foundation is one way we are putting that belief into action and in doing so we are helping young people across Newcastle to achieve their potential.
To all the students and staff beginning the new term: welcome back. We are excited to see what you achieve this year.