Crystal Palace’s FA Cup Victory Inspires the Next Generation

Many of our students felt inspired by Crystal Palace Football Club’s historic first major trophy win in May 2025. Our local team secured the FA Cup in a thrilling final against Manchester City FC.

With such a remarkable victory comes the opportunity to showcase the trophy and motivate young players. For Crystal Palace FC, this celebration was organised by the Palace for Life Foundation, a charity that uses the power of football to change the lives of young people in South London.

Harris Boys’ Academy East Dulwich was very fortunate to be one of the schools chosen for this special visit! The Palace for Life Foundation brought in the real FA Cup trophy and shield, giving students the chance to learn more about them and capture an unforgettable photo opportunity.

The grand trophies were set up in the hall under the watchful eyes of security personnel. We then heard from representatives of the Palace for Life Foundation, who spoke about what the win meant to the club and the positive impact such achievements can have on the wider community.

The Foundation promotes three core values: Innovation, Pride, and Teamwork, principles that we actively instil in our students, not only in sport but throughout their day-to-day lives.

Our students had the chance to ask questions about the trophies and the club. Although debating whether a yellow card in the final was justified was not up for discussion with the Foundation!

After the inspiring talk, students took photos with the FA Cup trophy and shield, either with their year group or their football team. Many staff members also joined in, eager to see the trophies for themselves.

We’d like to say a huge thank you to the Palace for Life Foundation for this incredible opportunity and for helping inspire the next generation of footballers and fans here at Harris Boys’ Academy East Dulwich!