Students at Aureus School were given a close look at a piece of football history when former Oxford United FC player Peter Rhoades-Brown visited the school with the Milk Cup trophy won by the club in 1986.
The visit gave pupils the opportunity to see the trophy up close while hearing first-hand about the challenges and achievements of professional football.
Amy King, Careers Lead at the school, said the session focused on resilience rather than sporting success alone.
“Peter visited the school to speak to students about resilience, focusing on the highs and lows of his football career, and how he overcame setbacks,” she said.
“Although he brought the Milk Cup trophy with him, the session centred on character, perseverance, and learning from challenges.”
Now serving as Club Ambassador and Engagement Officer at Oxford United F.C., Rhoades-Brown joined a Year 7 football lesson before visiting classrooms to speak with students and answer questions.
During breaktime, more pupils had the chance to meet him, ask for autographs and hear about his experiences in football.
Miss King said the visit gave students direct access to a role model whose experiences extended beyond sport.
“Students had the chance to hold real conversations with someone who has lived through the pressures and rewards of professional sport,” she said.
“They heard honest reflections about resilience, setbacks, and personal growth; saw an iconic piece of football history up close; and asked questions, sought advice, and made personal connections.”
She added that the experience helped reinforce the idea that success often depends on determination, attitude and self-belief as much as talent.
The school’s link with the club came through a personal connection, with Miss King explaining that her grandfather is a long-standing season ticket holder, helping to establish contact with the club.
“They have visited once before, delivering an assembly,” she said. “They expressed a strong desire to return again because of how enthusiastic, respectful, and engaged our students were.”
She added that visits of this kind help strengthen community ties, raise aspiration and provide memorable examples of resilience for pupils.
