Former Sheffield United player Jake Wright has made a surprising career shift, leaving the football field for the classroom. In September, he took on a new role as the head of Year 8 at Newfield School, a secondary school in Sheffield. This unexpected transition from the noisy dressing room to the quiet corridors of a school has been a fascinating journey for Wright, who admits he had no clear plan after his playing days.
Wright's new position is not about teaching but rather offering support and guidance to students. He shares an office with the head of Year 7 and the director of the lower school, providing a central hub for pastoral care. This role allows him to utilize his leadership skills and authority, which were honed on the football pitch, to help shape young minds. Wright's quiet and authoritative presence, combined with his thirst for hard work, makes him an ideal mentor for the students.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Wright's new career is his focus on male role models. Growing up on a council estate in Bradford, he struggled at school and lacked positive male influences. Now, with two teenage sons, he understands the importance of having someone to look up to. During his interview for the job, he emphasized the need for a male role model, which ultimately secured him the position. Wright's personal experiences and understanding of the challenges faced by students in similar environments make him a relatable and effective mentor.
The transition from the high-pressure world of professional football to the more relaxed environment of a school has been a significant adjustment. Wright jokes about the difference between the dressing room and his new office, where he no longer needs to shout at players but instead provides quiet support and guidance. He finds joy in turning students who might not be attending school into regular attendees and even helping them enjoy lessons again.
Wright's former teammates and manager have shown interest and amusement at his new career choice. Paul Coutts, a former teammate, describes Wright as an "unassuming lad" with a "dry sense of humour", while Chris Basham, another former teammate, finds it hard to imagine Wright in a school setting. However, they both acknowledge his leadership skills and believe he will be a valuable asset to the students.
Despite his new role, Wright has not ruled out a return to football. He has completed his UEFA B coaching badges and has already coached Sheffield United's under-13 and under-14 teams. However, for now, he is fully immersed in his pastoral role, building relationships with students and parents. He looks forward to guiding students through their years at the school, and the thought of the Leavers Assembly in Year 11 already brings a sense of emotion to him.
