The EUFC Schools programme is a new community initiative by Ebbsfleet United FC that aims to create additional learning opportunities and memorable experiences for local young people, to contribute to the curriculum, using football as a vehicle for raising aspirations and encouraging greater engagement in schools.

Coordinated by experienced education professional and Fleet fan Phil Moss, the programme offers a number of different elements that can be accessed by both primary and secondary schools within our local area. This includes: stadium visits and tours; curriculum-based sessions or projects, for example, in geography, history and art; careers advice and guidance; and citizenship and wellbeing. Additional activities are already in the planning stage.

The establishment of the EUFC Schools programme has been made possible thanks to a £10,000 grant from the National League Trust, which is a partnership between the National League, the Premier League and the Professional Footballers’ Association. The Premier League and the PFA have committed to support the Trust until 2025 and they will each contribute to a donation of £1.2m a year over this period, which allows the Trust to help National League member clubs develop their community programmes.

During the first year of the EUFC Schools programme, the club has targeted engagement with at least one-third of the 46 schools in our local area, and in subsequent years our plans are to reach out to all 55,000 young people in primary and secondary schools as the programme develops and offers additional activities.

Alongside collaboration with schools, the club is looking to engage local businesses who are able to partner with the EUFC Schools programme to offer further opportunities for our young people that will benefit the Ebbsfleet, Gravesend and Northfleet communities.