Prince Harry plays pickleball at Birmingham school to launch Invictus education scheme

The Duke of Sussex visited Ninestiles Academy in Acocks Green, Birmingham, to mark the launch of a new education initiative called Inspire. The scheme, tied to the Invictus Games, draws on the personal stories of wounded, injured and sick military personnel and veterans who compete in the Games, using them to teach children about resilience and mental fitness.

Dressed casually in a dark polo shirt and jeans, the duke appeared relaxed as he joined pupils on court, later taking time to answer their questions.

On the court

During several rallies against Year 7 and Year 11 students, Harry joked about his back hurting after stretching for a low shot, and applauded the youngsters whenever they won a point.

When asked who inspired him, the duke said it wasn't a single person but a whole group of people. Gesturing towards Invictus competitors, he explained that it was this community — people who get knocked down but keep getting back up — that inspired him most.

Looking ahead to 2027

The Invictus Games, which Prince Harry founded for wounded, injured and sick military personnel and veterans, are due to be held in Birmingham in 2027. The new schools programme forms part of the build-up to that event.