Bury Town club captain organises inclusive football festival for 100 SEND students ahead of world cup

Josh Curry, the current club captain of Bury Town FC organised a football tournament in Ipswich for around100 students ahead of the World Cup.

The occasion took place at One Sixth Form College (ONE) learners from the host college (ONE) West Suffolk College, East Coast College, WS Training, Suffolk New College and Colchester Institute go head-to-head in a seven a side tournament.

Mr Curry said: “The aim of the event is to bring together SEND students, giving them the opportunity to showcase their football skills, build confidence, and take part in a positive, inclusive sporting experience. The festival is really focused on inclusion, community collaboration, and providing a meaningful sporting opportunity for SEND learners and it was so popular, we now want to make this an annual event. Thanks to everyone for coming along and to all of the team including Eliot Cutting for their support.”

Maria Esteban is Course Leader at Colchester Institute. Maria said: “It’s been a great collaboration, and we are so pleased to have been invited. We can’t thank Eastern Education Group enough.”

Jess Figura is a Course Director at West Suffolk College. She said: “Our students love Football. They have been able to play as a team and feel part of something of something special.”

Matt Townrow, 18, from Sudbury is on a media course at One Sixth Form College. He said: “During the tournament I made the best save I’ve ever made. Days like this are important.”

Ryan Grwns is on a Steps 2 course at Colchester Institute. He said: “The highlight has been scoring a couple of goals. I’ve had fun.”

Colchester Institute were crowned overall winners.