Girls at a SEND school in Hindhead are proving football is not just for the boys.

Undershaw pupils in Key Stage 3 and 4 left their mark at an inclusive tournament hosted by Fulham Football Club. It was part of the Surrey Inclusive Schools League, in which Undershaw now competes regularly. Across the two days, Fulham FC hosted 13 local schools, with 28 teams competing. More than 280 young footballers with disabilities or Special Educational Needs were able to play competitive football at a world class facility.

The all-female team played against six other SEND Schools and finished the day in first place, winning five out of six matches.

“We know for many of our students, movement is key to helping them regulate their emotions,” said Emma West, Undershaw’s head. “The recent introduction of football as our focus sport has given all the students the chance to enjoy football and through that, we have seen a massive influx in participation and enjoyment. We currently have 30 students signed up for four different teams. Undershaw will definitely be returning in the next half term to defend our title!”

Will Milner-Smith, Undershaw’s physical education lead, said: “Opportunities like these allow our students to work together as a team and compete with other schools in the local area. As well as honing those all-important football skills, participating in a competitive league provides them with the satisfaction of representing the school out in the community – to hear them speak about how excited they are for it is amazing!”