Co-op Academy Failsworth’s Pride Club was established at the beginning of the 2021/22 academic year, providing a social space for students who identify as LGBTQ+ or as allies.
The group has grown quickly from its inception with between 40 and 50 students attending weekly meetings discuss important people in the local community, their role models or talking points and issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.
Keen to learn more about the group’s activities, City goalkeeper Scott Carson joined the group on a virtual call at the beginning of Pride Month – a worldwide celebration throughout June - to discuss what the group meant to each of its members.
Following the success of that initial meeting, Co-op Academy Failsworth invited City in the Community ambassador Alex Williams to attend one of their sessions in person.
Taking part in a number of activities surrounding football’s relationship with the LGBTQ+ community, Williams also explained the importance of the local community in CITC’s work before fielding questions from students.
As a sign of the Club’s support and with a view to building on the current relationship between the school and CITC, the former City goalkeeper also gifted the Pride Club a signed canvas, painted by our Women’s team as part of December’s Rainbow Laces celebrations.
Reflecting on the visit, Williams said: “It was great to be able to get out into the local area and learn more about Co-op Academy Failsworth’s Pride Club in person.
“It is brilliant to see students of all ages, who both identify as LGBTQ+ or allies, engaging in some important discussions around the community and sporting inclusion.
“The Club and CITC have always taken pride in our community ethos, and it is fantastic to show our support to groups such as these.
“I would like to thank Co-op Academy Failsworth for making us feel so welcome on our visit, and we are all looking forward to working with the school in future.”
The group was set up by Citizenship and Religious Education teacher, Giles Briscoe, and he added: “Our school community is grateful for how Manchester City has supported our Pride Club and listened to our young people during Pride Month.
“We appreciate the time Scott Carson and Alex Williams took to speak with and listen to us, especially when inclusion in sport can be something which can be a difficult topic to address.
“Manchester City have been very generous in their time and advocacy for making sure everyone feels welcome to enjoy football.
“We appreciate the canvas which was given for us to display in our school and we look forward to working with the team moving forward!”
