Chelsea footballer inspires our pupils

An inspiring assembly from a former professional footballer heard how the career came with both rewards and challenges, while instilling resilience and discipline.

Former Chelsea left-winger Peter Rhoades-Brown was the guest at our school when he addressed students in Years 8 to 11 recently.

Drawing on his own professional experiences within the world of top-flight sport, Peter spoke candidly about overcoming challenges, adapting to setbacks and persevering through difficult times.

He played for the West London club from 1979 to 1983 before moving to Oxford United where he made 112 appearances between 1984 and 1989 when injury forced him to retire.

He visited our school through Head of Careers Amy King who met him at a football match.

“I regularly visit Oxford United home games with my grandfather, and during a visit to the club’s hospitality area I spoke with Mr Rhoades-Brown about his career. I was delighted when he agreed to visit the school and speak to students,” she said.

Students engaged enthusiastically with his talk and found his emphasis on resilience to be something they related to.

Miss King said: “The event is part of the school’s ongoing commitment to providing meaningful careers guidance and exposing students to a wide range of personal and professional pathways.”

The former footballer continues his links with the sport and works at Oxford United as its first Club Ambassador and Engagement Officer.

Miss King said she was ‘delighted’ with the impact of the session and was grateful to Mr Rhoades-Brown for taking the time to visit the school and speak to students.

“He linked real world experience with the skills and mindset students will need as they move towards further education and employment,” she added.