Game Changer: How a London-based PE Teacher Wants Every Student with Asthma to be Seen

Send us Fan MailIn the latest episode of the Up, Up and Away podcast hosts Dom and Saira caught up with Hamdoun, a 19-year-old assistant PE teacher from South London and new ambassador for Tiny Medical Apps' Digital Health Passport. Hamdoun is currently working in a primary school near Wembley Stadium, is passionate about supporting young people, especially those with asthma and long-term conditions. Background & RoleInitially wanted to be a footballer; discovered a love for sports coaching during sixth form.Works with children aged 4–11 and engages with every student throughout the week.Sees physical activity as essential for health and personal development.Asthma & Young PeopleMany pupils in his school live with asthma, but older children often shy away from discussing it.Some feel ashamed or fear being mocked, leading to reluctance in using inhalers or disclosing their condition.Emphasises normalising asthma through open conversations and preparedness.Practical Action & SupportProactively checks asthma status before school trips and matches.Shares a powerful story about noticing a child struggling during a football match due to asthma—his support and quick action made a real difference.Discovered an expired inhaler and followed up directly with the parent to stress the importance of medication checks.Digital Health PassportExcited to become a Digital Health Passport ambassador to further support young people.Believes in empowering children to speak up and take ownership of their condition.Sees technology as a valuable tool to remind parents and pupils about medication and expiry dates.Advice to Young PeopleDon’t be ashamed—you're not alone.Share symptoms and personal preferences with trusted adults like PE teachers.Participation in sport can boost both physical and mental health—even for those with asthma.Suggestions for SchoolsMore frequent reminders to parents about checking medication expiry dates.Foster environments where students feel safe discussing their health.Hamdoun brings empathy, leadership, and lived experience to his role. He’s a role model helping children play hard and breathe easy, showing that supporting young people with asthma isn’t about over complication—it’s about caring, preparing, and listening.