Anthony Gordon joins Newcastle United Foundation Partner School class

Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon has been sharing his journey with young people to inspire the next generation to achieve their ambitions.

The visit to one of the Foundation’s Partner Schools included a session focused on teamwork, communication, and personal development. Students were thrilled when Gordon joined the class, diving into group activities and sharing his own story – from grassroots to representing his country.

Gordon shared the challenges he has faced along the way, the importance of resilience, and how staying focused helped him reach his goals. Students were able to quiz the England international about his career and reflect on their own ambitions both in and out of school.

Benfield School is one of several Partner Schools supported by Newcastle United Foundation and the Harrison Foundation, where dedicated staff work within the school to support pupils who may be struggling with engagement or facing personal barriers to education. The programme offers tailored mentoring and wellbeing support throughout the academic year.

Andy Foster, Director of Programmes and Impact at Newcastle United Foundation, said: “Having someone like Anthony Gordon visit brings our work to life. He’s a relatable figure for many of the students, and his presence reinforces the message that success is achievable with determination and support.

“Our Partner Schools programme is designed to help young people build confidence and develop the skills they need to thrive – both in and out of the classroom.”

The initiative is delivered in collaboration with the Harrison Foundation, which helps fund more than 1,600 sessions annually across the region. Together, the charities aim to create lasting impact by offering meaningful opportunities to young people through education and mentorship.

Daniel Harrison MBE, trustee of the Harrison Foundation, said: “Sometimes students just need that extra little bit of support to gain the confidence in themselves, and that’s what we’re delivering through the Partner Schools programme.

“It was great to see the students working together in the lesson and the surprise they got when Anthony arrived was great to see. It really underlined the message that the key to success is hard work and dedication.”

Gordon has previously earned the Professional Footballers’ Association Community Champion Award, recognising his positive engagement in the North East community. Since arriving at the club, the 24-year-old has been involved in various Foundation initiatives including time spent volunteering at the charity’s Community Pantry and meeting recently arrived refugees and young migrants transitioning to a new home with the Foundation.

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