Stockport Vikings U9s Mid-Season Review: Building Confidence, Character, and Community
At The Changing Education Group, we believe personal growth doesn’t stop at the school gates; it happens everywhere young people are learning, striving, and finding their feet.
That’s why we’re proud to sponsor Stockport Vikings U9s, a grassroots football club where the real victories happen off the scoreboard. From teamwork to tenacity, this season is packed with lessons that mirror the values we champion every day in schools and workplaces across the UK.
A Season of Character: Quiet Wins That Matter
Success isn’t always measured in goals scored or matches won.
For the Vikings, this season has been defined by:
- Resilience after setbacks
- Effort-first mindsets where hard work trumps raw talent
- Unity in every pre- and post-match huddle
These aren’t just football lessons, they’re life lessons.
And they reflect the work we do every day: building confidence, celebrating progress, and preparing young people for the world beyond education.
Three Squads, One Purpose: Progress in Every Team
Across the Warriors, Raiders, and Chieftains, each team is growing in its way, but all share the same Viking spirit.
Warriors
Currently in a rebuild phase, the Warriors are forming a new identity. With every match, they’re learning about grit, teamwork, and the power of persistence.
Raiders
After a period of rest and reset, the Raiders are returning to competition with renewed energy. Their focus and resilience are building the foundation for future success.
Chieftains
With 8 wins so far, this squad is evolving into a well-drilled unit, thanks to disciplined tactics, smart play, and strong team cohesion.
No matter their stage, every player is learning what it means to contribute, commit, and grow.
Respect First: The Vikings’ Winning Culture
At this club, respect is non-negotiable.
Players are taught:
- Shake hands after every match
- Celebrate effort, not ego
- Support teammates and opponents alike
It’s the same ethos we follow at The Changing Education Group: fostering empathy, professionalism, and integrity in every relationship.
Tactical Thinking: Skills That Go Beyond Sport
Football at this level isn’t just physical, it’s strategic.
And those lessons in mindset and communication echo the skills we promote through careers education and work placements.
- The Chieftains are mastering a structured 4-1-1 formation, learning to stay calm under pressure and think ahead.
- The Warriors are building a team culture from the ground up, embracing inclusion and long-term growth.
- The Raiders are showing determination in their comeback, proving that consistency and resilience are as important as talent.
These players are gaining more than match fitness; they’re learning how to adapt, take responsibility, and support others. Just like in the workplace.
Why This Matters to Us
Supporting grassroots sport isn’t just a gesture; it’s a reflection of our core mission.
At The Changing Education Group, we exist to bridge the gap between education and employment.
Whether it’s on the pitch or in a placement, we help young people become:
- Confident contributors
- Team players
- Future-ready learners
We deliver:
- Time-saving, compliant work experience solutions
- Support for Gatsby Benchmark 6 and Ofsted readiness
- Real-world career learning through employer engagement
And we do it all with the same belief the Vikings hold: that growth comes through challenge, effort, and encouragement.
Get Involved: Help Shape Young Futures
Whether you’re a school, college, or employer, you can help build something bigger.
- Sponsor a local youth team
- Offer a work experience placement
- Partner with us to create hands-free, high-impact careers provision
Email us: workwithus@changingeducation.co.uk
Call: 0161 515 7800
Visit: www.changingeducation.co.uk
Let’s build something lasting, for learners, for communities, and for the future.