The Football Association (FA) has set a goal to ensure that 90% of schools provide equal access to football for girls at key stages two and three by 2028. This objective is part of a new four-year strategy aimed at expanding women’s and girls’ football participation.
In addition to this, the FA is targeting another major tournament victory within the next four years, following the success of the England team at Euro 2022 and their appearance in the 2023 World Cup final. The Lionesses are set to defend their European title in Switzerland next summer and aim for their first world title in 2027.
The FA’s new strategy, titled 'Reaching Higher,' includes plans to improve education, enhance female health and wellbeing support, implement national safeguarding policies, and develop more women referees and coaches. One of the key priorities is to protect the 'uniqueness of the women’s game,' with a commitment to ensure that at least 50% of football enthusiasts understand its unique values.
Equal access to football for girls in schools is a significant focus. FA data from September shows that while 85% of primary schools now offer girls equal access to football in PE, progress has been slower at secondary school level, with half still not providing equal opportunities.
The strategy launch follows the 'Inspiring Positive Change' initiative, which saw a 56% increase in women and girls participating in football between 2020 and 2024. Baroness Sue Campbell, the outgoing director of women’s football, emphasized the need for continued progress, stating, 'We must strive to reach higher.'
The FA’s new strategy was unveiled shortly after UEFA’s 'Unstoppable' plan, which pledges to invest a billion Euros in women’s football over the next six years, aiming for six fully professional women’s leagues in Europe by 2030 and 5,000 professional players across the continent.
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