Podcast: Football Beyond Borders

My guest is Ceylon Andi Hickman, director of the charity Football Beyond Borders (FBB). We’re discussing how football is making a positive change to young people’s lives, especially in their education. The charity has worked with footballers, including Marcus Rashford, Rodri and Chris Smalling, and is proven to help children do well at school.

Ceylon also plays in central defence for Dulwich Hamlet Women, so we also discuss the progressive culture around the South London club. They have been promoted since the time of recording, so congratulations to them.

Here’s a breakdown of what we cover in the podcast:

FBB’s Mission and Role: FBB works long-term with young people, supporting them to finish school with essential skills and qualifications. The goal is to help them transition successfully to adulthood by providing a consistent, trusted adult presence in their lives.

History and Origins of FBB: Founded by Jack and Jasper after the 2011 London riots, FBB started with community football sessions in Kennington Park in South London. They aimed to help local youth, particularly those at risk of exclusion from school, by combining football with academic support.

Programme Methodology: FBB’s methodology includes an hour in the classroom followed by an hour on the football pitch. The program is intensive, with practitioners becoming an extension of the school’s pastoral team, providing comprehensive support.

Challenges Faced by Young People: The podcast discusses the various challenges young people face, including poverty, trauma, and emotional difficulties, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. FBB addresses these issues by providing personalised support and building trusted relationships.

Impact and Success Stories: Ceylon shares success stories, such as a girl who overcame significant personal challenges to attend school regularly thanks to FBB’s support. This demonstrates the positive impact of the programme on individual lives.

Collaboration with Schools: FBB works closely with schools to provide targeted support for students. This includes reflective practice groups, professional development for school staff, and direct involvement in students’ lives to help them succeed academically and socially.

High-Profile Supporters: FBB is supported by notable figures in football, such as England star Marcus Rashford and Rodri from Manchester City. These athletes contribute by sharing their experiences and promoting the importance of education and personal development.

Future Goals and Systemic Change: FBB aims to influence broader systemic change in the education system, emphasising the importance of relationships and social-emotional development. The organisation seeks to expand its impact by scaling up its work and collaborating with more partners.

Dulwich Hamlet Women FC: Ceylon plays for Dulwich Hamlet Women, so we discuss the culture around the women’s team at the South London outfit.

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I release a new podcast every two weeks, so be sure to subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. You can find Football Travel by Outside Write on Apple, Spotify, Player.FM and Anchor. Look for it in Google Podcasts too. I’d really appreciate a rating or view if you like what I’m doing as it helps others discover the podcast. 

The podcast is sponsored by Pibe de Barrio, the on-the-ground football experts in Buenos Aires, helping you live the Argentine matchday experience.