A pioneering girls-only programme designed to improve confidence, communication and self-belief has celebrated a successful first delivery by Sports Coaching Group in partnership with Together Active.
The six-week Confidence Movement programme was delivered at Birches Head Academy, in Stoke-on-Trent, and focused on empowering young girls through physical activity, discussion and reflective learning.
The initiative explored important topics including confidence, mindset, body image, media influence, friendship and communication, community and belonging, while encouraging participants to develop leadership skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Throughout the programme, pupils aged 13-14, took part in trust-based activities and collaborative challenges designed to strengthen teamwork, communication and self-expression.
Alongside the physical sessions, discussions gave participants the opportunity to openly explore the pressures young girls can face both in school and through social media.
Programme leaders say the impact of the course was visible from the very first session, with pupils growing in confidence week-by-week and becoming increasingly willing to speak up, support others and lead activities.
The success of the programme highlights the growing importance of confidence-building opportunities within education.
Charlie Chorlton, Commercial Director for Sports Coaching Group and its parent company EMPHASIS Community Interest Company, said: “The response to The Confidence Movement has been incredibly positive and it has been fantastic to see the growth in the girls throughout the six weeks.
“Throughout the six weeks, Together Active and Sports Coaching Group, delivered structured sessions that were suitable for all ability levels. The coaches encouraged participants throughout sessions, provided positive feedback, and ensured progress was recognised. This helped improve participants’ confidence levels and encouraged them to challenge themselves without fear of judgement. Overall, The Confidence Movement had a positive impact on participants, providing high‑quality coaching, a safe and encouraging environment, and opportunities for women to improve both physical and mental wellbeing.“
Mr Davies, Birches Head Academy, Stoke-on-Trent
“The programme is about far more than sport. It is about helping young people feel comfortable in themselves, use their voice and build positive relationships with others.
“We want girls to leave the sessions believing in their own abilities and understanding that confidence is something that can be developed.”
The project was launched in response to increasing recognition that confidence, wellbeing and communication skills play a major role in classroom engagement, participation in physical activity and future aspirations.
Following the success of the first programme at Birches Head Academy, Sports Coaching Group hopes to continue expanding The Confidence Movement into more schools across the region.
Sports Coaching Group is part of EMPHASIS CIC, empowering communities and inspiring futures.
