Bringing together two things at the centre of what we do at Kinetic Foundation, football and education, Level the Pitch provided a unique opportunity for young people to explore the rule of law through sport and interactive learning.
On Saturday 24th of October, some of our young people took part in Level The Pitch at #MerkyFC HQ. This event combined football, an interactive escape room, and an opportunity for our young people to learn more about their rights. Delivered in collaboration with the Attorney General's Office Youth Ambassadors, the event demonstrated how important topics can be made more accessible and engaging through experiences beyond the traditional classroom.
Football was a big part of the day, with both boys and girls taking to the pitch for their respective games. There was plenty of quality football on display, with impressive performances and a competitive atmosphere throughout.
However, these weren't just ordinary football matches. Different rules and scenarios were introduced throughout, exploring ideas of injustice and unfairness within a football and sport setting, making it both practical and engaging.
By experiencing how rules can influence the game, our young people were encouraged to consider why the rules exist and the importance of adhering to them. It highlighted how principles such as fairness, equality and accountability apply not only on the football pitch but also in wider society.
Another one of the highlights of the day was the interactive escape room. This gave participants the chance to put their problem solving and teamwork skills to the test.
The young people really engaged with this, as there were plenty of laughs, particularly as some friendly competition developed between the girls to see who could complete the challenge in the fastest time!
Rather than simply being about the rule of law, the young people were able to engage with it, ask questions and develop their understanding through practical experiences. The activities demonstrated how learning can be both enjoyable and meaningful by providing an opportunity to explore important topics in an environment that encouraged curiosity but made it fun.
Participants were also introduced to CtRol, an app designed to help young people better understand the rule of law and their rights.
The app offered another way to explore how legal principles relate to everyday situations, making information feel more accessible and relevant to young people.
By bringing technology into the event, Level the Pitch highlighted how different approaches can be used to encourage young people to engage with topics that may otherwise feel complicated or unfamiliar.
There was also plenty to celebrate throughout the day, with some of the young people taking home vouchers and having the opportunity to win some exciting prizes.
After completing all the activities, participants were entered into a raffle for the chance to win a brand-new pair of adidas football boots.
Two of our young people, one boy and one girl, were fortunate enough to walk away with a new pair of boys, providing a great ending to an already enjoyable day.
Beyond the football, competition and prizes, Level the Pitch gave our young people the opportunity to engage with a subject that directly impacts their everyday lives. From exploring fairness on the pitch to navigating challenges in the escape room, the activities encouraged participants to think critically, ask questions and gain a greater understanding of their rights. It was great to see our young people getting involved, embracing the challenges and enjoying everything the day had to offer.
A huge thank you to the Attorney General’s Office Youth Ambassadors and everyone involved in organising and delivering Level the Pitch, as well as all the young people who made the day such a success.