Pupils, staff and special guests came together at Keyworth Primary School for a heartfelt day of football, fundraising and community spirit, organised in support of one very special pupil.
Alfie, a year 4 pupil and a proud Notts County FC supporter, was diagnosed with Juvenile Arthritis. Since his diagnosis, he has undergone ongoing hospital treatment with the QMC Paediatric Rheumatology Team, and before Christmas he received a bravery award in recognition of everything he has faced.
Despite the challenges of his rare condition, Alfie’s greatest passion remains football. The sport gives him confidence, determination and a sense of normality, and he is determined to show others that even when you face obstacles, you can still take part in the things you love.
Wanting to say thank you to the team who cared for him, Alfie and his school organised a fundraising and awareness day to support the hospital department that helped him through his treatment.
To mark the Juvenile Arthritis Day 2026, pupils across the school were invited to wear their favourite football shirts, with football-themed activities taking place throughout the day. Sessions were delivered class-by-class, with Alfie, his dad, and volunteer coaches leading training for pupils in their respective age groups.
Notts County Foundation was proud to support the day, delivering football coaching sessions for pupils and joining in the celebrations. As part of the visit, Foundation staff surprised Alfie with some special Notts County gifts to thank him for his incredible support for the club and to recognise the bravery he has shown during his treatment.
In the morning, the school hosted a special assembly led by members of the Paediatric Rheumatology Consultant Team from Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, giving pupils the chance to learn more about the work they do and why the fundraising effort will make such a difference.
The day continued after school with fundraising activities, including a silent auction, with the whole school community coming together to show their support for Alfie and the hospital team.
“It was an honour to be part of such a special day at Keyworth Primary School. Alfie’s courage and positivity are an inspiration, and it was fantastic to see the whole school come together to support such an important cause. We’re proud to have been able to play a small part in a day that meant so much to Alfie and his family.” – Josh Wing, Marketing and Events Coordinator at Notts County Foundation
The Foundation would like to thank everyone at Keyworth Primary School for the warm welcome, and to congratulate Alfie on an incredible fundraising effort in support of the team who helped him on his journey.
