Students from the Vocational Foundation Learning (VFL) programme at HSDC South Downs experienced an unforgettable day of football and achievement on 11 June, as they travelled to St George’s Park, the official training base of England’s national teams, to compete in a prestigious Pan Disability Football Festival.
This festival at the Staffordshire base brought together 22 colleges from across the UK for a celebration of inclusive sport, providing opportunities for young people with disabilities to showcase their talent and passion for football.
Whilst the event was focused on participation, teamwork and inclusion, rather than competition, the South Downs students nonetheless delivered exceptional performances throughout the day. Demonstrating skill, determination and outstanding teamwork, the VFL side topped their group, concluding with impressive victories over Newcastle College and Leicester College in their final matches.
With the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in full swing, the visit offered a timely opportunity for HSDC’s students to immerse themselves in the wider football community and feel connected to the sport at the highest level.
It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to play on the same pitches as England legends like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, and reinforced the core values of the VFL programme – confidence-building, personal development and inclusion through sport.
Staff accompanying the group praised the students’ efforts, dedication and positive attitude throughout the day, noting how they represented HSDC with pride both on and off the pitch.
Jess Hathaway, VFL Lecturer and Be Active Coordinator, said:
“I couldn’t be prouder of this group of lads. The day at St George’s Park was about participation, inclusion and enjoying the game, and they reflected all of those values from start to finish. Moments like this go far beyond football, they reflect everything we strive to promote as a college: resilience, courage, inclusion and the belief that every student can achieve more than they think they can. Every player should be immensely proud of what they accomplished and the way they represented the college throughout the day.”
This visit to St George’s Park stands as a real testament to the power of HSDC’s inclusive sporting opportunities and the experiences that these create. Everyone at the College is incredibly proud of these students, and wishes them all the best in their future studies.