July 8, 2026
Harrison Foundation Partnership Helping Young People Build Confidence at Callerton Academy
More than seven years after the Harrison Foundation first partnered with Newcastle United Foundation, trustee Daniel Harrison MBE visited Callerton Academy this week to see the impact of that investment in one of the programme’s Partner Schools.
During the visit, Daniel met with Newcastle United Foundation tutor Paul and joined students taking part in a series of practical activities designed to develop teamwork, leadership and communication skills. Pupils also took part in exercises that encouraged them to present ideas in front of their classmates, helping to build confidence in public speaking and develop skills that will benefit them both in education and later in employment.
The Harrison Foundation established its partnership with Newcastle United Foundation in 2017 with a shared ambition to improve social mobility by creating better opportunities for young people across the North East. A key part of that partnership is the Partner Schools programme, which places dedicated Newcastle United Foundation staff within schools to provide additional support for pupils who may be struggling with confidence, engagement or other barriers to learning.
Rather than focusing solely on academic achievement, the programme helps young people develop the personal qualities that are equally important for future success. Through practical activities, pupils strengthen their communication, teamwork, leadership and problem-solving skills while building the confidence to participate more fully in school life.
During the session at Callerton Academy, Daniel worked alongside students as they tackled a range of team challenges and presentation exercises. The activities encouraged pupils to think creatively, support one another and communicate effectively, creating an engaging learning environment where every student was encouraged to contribute.
Daniel Harrison MBE said: “One of the most rewarding aspects of our partnership with Newcastle United Foundation is seeing the confidence that young people develop through programmes like this. Today’s session was about encouraging students to work together, communicate effectively and have the confidence to stand up and share their ideas. These are life skills that will stay with them long after they leave school and are exactly the sort of qualities employers are looking for. By investing in programmes like the Partner Schools initiative, we’re helping more young people recognise their own potential and preparing them for the opportunities that lie ahead.”
The impact of the Partner Schools programme continues to grow across the region. More than 900 young people are supported each academic year through dedicated sessions delivered in schools across Newcastle and North Tyneside. The partnership delivers more than 1,600 sessions every year, with 93% of participants saying they feel more inspired and engaged through the programme. Nine in ten report improved confidence and self-esteem, while 89% say their physical and mental wellbeing has improved. During the last academic year alone, more than 11,500 hours of physical activity were delivered alongside over 22,000 attendances at breakfast, lunchtime and after-school activities. More than 470 young people also took part in social action projects, helping them develop leadership skills and a stronger sense of community responsibility.
The visit to Callerton Academy demonstrated how the Harrison Foundation’s long-term investment in Newcastle United Foundation is helping young people develop the confidence, resilience and employability skills needed to succeed beyond the classroom. By supporting programmes that remove barriers to learning and unlock potential, the Foundation continues to create opportunities that have a lasting impact on young people, their schools and communities across the North East.