Kickstart Confidence gave local girls a safe place to grow in confidence, develop leadership skills and realise the positive impact they can have in their community.

Aimed at increasing confidence levels for some 36 girls, aged 8–16, through weekly sport and leadership sessions and providing a safe, structured weekly environment that reduces isolation and gives girls a positive place to attend after school, She Kicks Academy has achieved a very successful course with excellent positive feedback from parents – in particular, the programme attracted girls who were previously inactive or not involved in structured community activities, with strong retention levels and positive behavioural engagement throughout. As the leader commented: there were several additional achievements and unexpected benefits from the project. One of the most positive outcomes was the strength of friendships and peer support networks that developed between girls of different ages. Participants who had not previously known each other built strong connections, creating a more supportive and inclusive community environment. We also saw improvements in school-related behaviours such as communication, teamwork, punctuality and willingness to engage with adults and peers. Parents shared positive feedback about increased confidence at home and a greater willingness to try new activities. Another unexpected benefit was the enthusiasm shown by older girls to continue volunteering beyond the funded project. Several participants expressed interest in future coaching, mentoring and leadership opportunities, creating a strong pathway for ongoing youth development within She Kicks Academy CIC. The project also increased awareness of girls’ community sport provision locally, leading to new enquiries from families and stronger links with schools and local partners.  Overall, the project delivered more than just weekly sessions - it helped build confidence, relationships, aspirations and stronger community connections.