Visit to Oldham Athletic FC Kicks Off Inspiration for EdStart Students
Students Meet Football Heroes, Explore Boundary Park, and Learn Life Lessons
Nine students from EdStart Bolton enjoyed an unforgettable day at Oldham Athletic Football Club, where they got to explore the iconic Boundary Park stadium, meet the team, and learn valuable life lessons from the club’s players and staff.
The students, aged 14–16, were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, walked the pitch and visited key areas such as the players’ changing rooms. The highlight of the day was meeting several of the club’s first-team players — James Norwood, Michael Fondop, and Tom Conlon — along with goalkeeper coach Scott Davis. The students shared lunch with the players, playing pool and darts before a lively Q&A session.
Lessons in Resilience and Ambition
During the session, the players shared advice about resilience and ambition, urging the students to make the most of their school years. James Norwood encouraged the students to “not just exist at school” but to fully engage with every opportunity, explaining how the lessons learned in school can have a lasting impact.
The visit was organised with the support of Micky Mellon, Oldham Athletic FC Manager and EdStart Schools’ Director of Leadership and Culture. Mellon, who is committed to developing leadership and ambition in young people, coordinated the event to inspire students and allow them to see firsthand the links between passion, effort and success.
“This experience was about broadening horizons,” said Micky Mellon. “By meeting the players, seeing how hard they work, and hearing their stories, our students gained insight into what it takes to succeed — not just in football, but in life. The team and I were proud to host them and hope they left feeling inspired.”
A Day to Remember
For the students, the visit left a lasting impression. One student said:
“Meeting the players was amazing! They were so friendly and shared great advice. We’re really grateful to our teachers for organising this — it was one of the best days we’ve ever had at school.”
James Lowe, CEO of EdStart Schools, added:
“This visit was about more than football. It was about showing our students the possibilities that exist when you set goals, work as a team, and stay determined. Thanks to Micky and the staff at Oldham Athletic FC, this has been a day that will stay with our students for years to come.”
About EdStart Schools
EdStart Schools is a network of SEND schools across the North West which supports children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs. They aim to equip students with the confidence and life skills they need to thrive. And experiences like this one play a crucial role in achieving these aims.
