Students from Holy Cross RC Primary, Fulham Cross Girls School, Bolingbroke Academy and Burntwood School were given the unique opportunity to soak up the atmosphere of a Premier League stadium.

The pitch day promoted Goal Getters, the Foundation’s programme designed to equip school-age females with essential skills such as resilience, self-esteem, confidence and empowerment.

Led by Foundation staff, participants took part in a series of activities including a carousel of fun football games, the chance to have a photo taken with the men’s Champions League trophy and the Women’s Super League trophy, as well as visit the club museum.

Chelsea Women legend Katie Chapman surprised participants and also took part in the session before hosting a question-and-answer around her footballing career, obstacles she overcame and advice for the girls.

On attending the event, Chapman said: ‘Seeing so many smiles on young women’s faces has inspired me. Bridging the gap on and off the field is important to showcase to young women that they can break barriers and chase their dream.’

Chelsea Foundation staff member Alfie Butwell added: ‘Goal Getters is one of our flagship programmes to support young women and provide opportunities to bring them together promoting female equality and empowerment.’

Sally Connew-Volpe from Holy Cross School commented: ‘This was a great opportunity for our young women, to play at the home of Chelsea FC but more importantly to celebrate their identity and to become Goal Getters.’

For more information about our Goal Getters programme, or any of our female targeted programmes, please contact [email protected]