The challenge is one element of the Premier League Inspires programme, which clubs run on a weekly basis to support young people who may be at risk of not reaching their potential as they move through the education system and into early adulthood.

This season, young people have been tasked with thinking about solutions to tackle gender inequality in their communities. Over 600 students from nine schools took part in Chelsea Foundation’s Premier League Inspires Challenge this season, with the winning group from each school presenting to a panel of Chelsea Foundation judges at Stamford Bridge in February. Tomlinscote School were named as overall winners with their proposal of Feel Safe, Feel Good – Gender Equality Week.

Tomlinscote School then represented Chelsea Foundation, joining hundreds of young people at the Premier League Inspires Challenge celebration event at Wembley at the end of April. They showcased their project alongside more than 40 other clubs from across the Premier League and English Football League. Former Manchester City Women and Lioness player Izzy Christiansen, as well as representatives from the PFA, were also in attendance to support and celebrate the young people’s achievements.

The challenge builds upon the Premier League and Premier League Charitable Fund’s commitment to creating opportunities for all in communities across England and Wales.

Lisa Manley, skills and learning manager at Chelsea Foundation, said: ‘The Premier League Inspires Challenge uses football to help students think about wider issues in today’s society. It also gives students the opportunity to practise a range of other skills, such as presentation, communication and public speaking. We have received fantastic feedback on the positive impact on students of Premier League Inspries from all of the schools we have worked with on the programme this season.’

Premier League Charitable Fund interim chief executive Alex White said: ‘The Premier League Inspires Challenge gives young people the chance to collaborate on projects that create a positive difference in their community, by championing gender equality and promoting inclusive environments. Through taking part in the challenge, young people can build their confidence and gain skills in areas such as public speaking, project planning and teamwork.’

Launched in 2019, Premier League Inspires creates life-changing opportunities for young people who may be at risk of not reaching their potential to engage with activities, helping them to develop the personal skills and positive attitudes needed to succeed in life.

This season, 45 football club charities across the Premier League and English Football League are delivering Premier League Inspires sessions at their stadiums, in local schools and at alternative educational settings, with partnership support from the PFA.

More than 30,000 young people from across England and Wales have received more than 130,000 hours of targeted support through the programme to date.