Inclusion in action on a national stage

Our Hartlepool College Inclusion Football Team pictured here with Andy Cole (Manchester United Foundation)

From early starts to a national stage, our CHOICES learners took their next step, together. Over the past days and weeks, our SEND learners and supportive staff have travelled across the country, building towards a moment that meant more than football. Yesterday, our CHOICES learners stepped onto the national stage at St George’s Park for the National CPC Inclusion Cup, after finishing second in the North regional event in Manchester.

We finished third in the country, narrowly missing out on the semi-finals to the eventual winners. It is a strong result. But what matters more is how our learners got there, and what they showed along the way.

For some of these learners, this was their first time leaving Hartlepool. Many have not been in school for several years. Every learner in the group has additional support needs, including EHCPs, diagnoses, or access arrangements. Some have faced challenges in previous settings. Here, they found something different. They found support, belief, and a team around them.

They set off at 4 am and 5 am. They shared long journeys, laughter, and moments that tested them. They built friendships with people they had not spoken to before. They led their own team talks. They motivated each other when it mattered most.

As Lee Clayton said, “I could not be any prouder of the learners… not only for their performances, resilience, and teamwork but for their empathy and sportsmanship.”

Hartlepool College Inclusion Footall Team, in pre match training in Manchester

That empathy showed in moments that will stay with them. After winning a quarter-final 2–0, our players were the first to support the opposition goalkeeper, lifting him up and encouraging him after a tough moment. Staff from St John Ambulance and the Manchester United Foundation both recognised the way our learners carried themselves.

They represented themselves, their families, and Hartlepool College with respect. They were kind, welcoming, and supportive to everyone they met.

Along the way, they also met Andy Cole, taking photos and sharing a moment with someone many of them look up to. For some, that alone made the day unforgettable.

This is what inclusion looks like. It is not just access. It is an opportunity. It is growth. It is giving every learner the chance to step forward, build confidence, and believe in what comes next.

These learners have shown what they are capable of. And this is only the beginning of that journey