From the pitch to the classroom - Dan’s second career kicks off

After nearly two decades on the football pitch with stints at clubs such as Latics, Celtic, Wigan and Doncaster, Dan Gardner has stepped into a very different team environment.

He now supports young people as a behaviour mentor at EdStart Schools, a group of special schools across the North West for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs.

His transition into education came naturally.

“I’ve enjoyed it so much,” said former midfielder Dan.

“It’s challenging, but I love helping the kids.

"I just want to carry on trying to make brilliant 16-year-olds.”

At EdStart Schools Oldham, Dan’s focus is on building strong, personal relationships with pupils.

On a practical level, this means greeting them each morning, supporting them during lessons and offering one-to-one time whenever needed.

His presence brings a calm, steadying influence, and he believes that the habits and mindset he developed over years in football directly support his work now.

“In football you go through knockbacks and big moments,” he explains.

“That makes you a more understanding person.

"Relationships are massive, especially in schools like this.”

Dan embodies this value.

His presence demonstrates to pupils that change is possible, goals can be set and achieved, and setbacks can be overcome.

He uses football analogies to help pupils understand emotions and behaviour - turning concepts like “redemption” into practical, relatable discussions about losing a match, working hard, and coming back stronger.

His way of reframing challenges helps pupils see progression rather than punishment, and possibility instead of limitation.

Dan’s impact has been felt quickly.

One pupil, Ollie*, connected with him almost immediately through their shared love of football.

Spotting real ability in him, Dan used his links with Latics, where he coaches the under-14s, to motivate and encourage him.

The agreement was simple.

If Ollie improved his behaviour and effort in school, he would be invited to train with the club.

“He improved, and he trained with the club the other day,” Dan added.

“He was absolutely buzzing, and you can see a real climb in his behaviour now.”

This kind of success story highlights why EdStart champions the recruitment of ex-professional footballers.

Former athletes bring a unique skill set shaped by years of discipline, teamwork, resilience and relationship building.

They understand high-pressure environments and have often worked closely with young academy players, giving them experience that translates seamlessly into mentoring.

Their backgrounds also give them instant credibility with pupils who are often disengaged or lacking positive role models.

When someone who has played at a high level takes an interest in them, pupils listen.

Dan’s journey into this role is shaped by more than his sporting achievements.

As a parent of an autistic child, he has seen the importance of patient, tailored support.

The positive changes he has watched in his son inspired him to seek a career where he could help others in the same way.

“If I can have that impact on these pupils and help them with their education and life skills, it will be like achieving what I achieved in my football career,” said Dan.

Just a few weeks into his new career, Dan already sees a long future with EdStart.

“I love seeing the pupils grow and build relationships,” he said.

“I can see myself being here for a long time.”

Dan’s story demonstrates not only his own commitment but also the wider potential of bringing former professional athletes into education.

With their unique blend of discipline, empathy and lived experience, ex-footballers like Dan can play a powerful role in helping young people reset, refocus and realise their own potential.

James Lowe, CEO of EdStart Schools, said: “Dan’s journey captures exactly what EdStart Schools is about - recognising potential, building strong relationships and helping young people believe in themselves again.

"Former professional athletes like Dan bring resilience, empathy and credibility that our pupils respond to immediately.

"His impact in such a short time shows how powerful the right role model can be in transforming outcomes for young people with social, emotional and mental health needs.”

* Name has been changed

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