Foundation Case Study – Meet Kate And Matthew

Developing relationships is fundamental to the work that the Newcastle United Foundation does in our Community. Over the coming weeks we’ll be sharing case studies from our projects that introduces you to Foundation staff and also the people that they have worked with on their projects.

First up is Kate Warner, who co-ordinates Enterprise projects at the Foundation, and participant Matthew Harrison.

The Enterprise Academy, currently funded by Sport Relief, teaches 11 to 19 year olds the basic principles of business and self-employment using Newcastle United Football Club as a real life case study. The programme helps pupils understand jobs, professions and career options and delivers programmes that are innovative and fun.  In 2013/14, 85 students also gained a combined 441 days of work experience through the Enterprise Academy.

Matthew, age 17 from Gateshead, completed work experience with the Foundation in both 2012 and 2013. Matthew, who has muscular dystrophy and uses a wheelchair, worked on a range of tasks in the office, assisting fundraising, project and administrative staff.

Both Matthew and his parents were delighted to find out he had been offered a placement at St James’ Park, especially as he is a huge Newcastle United fan and a keen footballer himself. He plays for the Percy Hedley Powerchair Football Team and also attends football sessions run by the Foundation in partnership with Gateshead Kestrels.

Inspired by his time with the Foundation and his support from Kate, Matthew now wants to train to be a Powerchair Football coach.  

For more information on Enterprise Projects email Kate Warner kate.warner@nufc.co.uk