Organised in partnership with the West Ham United Foundation and the Premier League Inspires programme, the workshop provided students with valuable insights into mental health and wellbeing.

Ferdinand, joined by Madison Hooper, Senior Education Officer at the West Ham United Foundation, spoke candidly with students about his personal mental health journey. He emphasised the importance of open conversations and sharing emotions, encouraging students to find things that bring them happiness and to seek support when needed.

During the workshop, students had the unique opportunity to design training t-shirts. Students created bright and colourful designs, featuring positive mental health messages, and were proudly worn by West Ham United players during a training session just ahead of Saturday’s Premier League victory against Ipswich Town. The hands-on workshop allowed students to interact with Anton and Madison, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The West Ham United Foundation also deliver 1:1 mentoring sessions to Lower Academy students, helping to promote wellbeing and positive mental health. The workshop was not only a memorable experience for the students but also reinforced the importance of mental health awareness in everyday life.

"I loved creating the West Ham training tops and felt really proud that so many people liked my design. Meeting Anton Ferdinand again was great, it was nice of him to come and see our work. I'm glad we talked about mental health, as I think it's important to let people know they're heard. I really enjoyed the whole experience!" Rhiannon.E – Year 9

“I really enjoyed this project. I thought it was fun using creativity as it helps to take your mind off anything else. We focused on ways to support our mental health; this was a great way of expressing ideas together.” Kenzy.T – Year 9

“I was keen to take part in this workshop. It was a very good and calming experience.” Izzie.H – Year 8

“I think it was fun because we could draw positive mental health messages on the players t-shirts. I was a little nervous to draw on the t-shirt at first but I soon gained in confidence.” Caitlyn.L – Year 9

“I enjoyed it today; it was really fun.” Tahira.S – Year 8

“My experience was amazing, I had a bunch of fun meeting Anton Ferdinand and spending time with friends.” Jaxon.G – Year 8

“Designing artwork for the t-shirts was extremely challenging but also very fun.” Oskar.M – Year 9

"Creating West Ham training t-shirts was such a fun and positive experience. Meeting Anton Ferdinand was amazing; he was really friendly, and so was everyone else there.” Corey.D – Year 9

Click here for more photos of the workshop and West Ham United players wearing our students' design.