Harrogate Town AFC support future football stars through education programme
Play, Train and Learn alongside Harrogate Town and Virtual Learning UK.
Last updated 9th Apr 2021
Aimed at students aged 16-18, Harrogate Town's education programme provides a BTEC qualification as well as the chance to train like a professional footballer every day.
Within Virtual Learning UK's partnership with Town, there is a unique opportunity to gain a BSc (hons) degree with the combination of work experience within a football environment. Courses include HNC & HND Sports Coaching Science and BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching & Sports Management (From 2023).
VLUK works with leading professional/semi-professional sports clubs and coaching organisations throughout the United Kingdom to deliver education in the heart of the professional sporting environment. Lead by senior education professionals & consultants, VLUK provide a range of services to the education sector, designed to compliment existing provision.
Harrogate Town and Virtual Learning UK understand the importance of a realistic balance between your educational development and industry experience. VLUK works with leading sports clubs and coaching organisations throughout the United Kingdom to deliver education in the heart of the professional sporting environment.
One of the major aspects of the BTEC programmes is that you have the opportunity to live the life of a football scholar on a day-to-day basis. Incorporating BTEC programmes alongside regular football training sessions coached by UEFA B qualified coaches as well as playing in competitive football fixtures in both the ‘Youth Alliance’ and ‘AoC College’ leagues.
The programme can lead directly into a Degree in a sports related subject such as a BSc (Hons) in Physical Education, or provide the platform to go straight into the football industry.
What will I study?
During the BTEC Level 3 programme, students will study a range of units that will help to underpin their knowledge and understanding of a range of topics associated with sport. Some of the main study units/topics include:
- Careers in the Sport & Active Leisure Industry
- Health, Wellbeing & Sport
- Developing Coaching Skills
- Sport Development
- Sports Psychology
- Nutrition for Physical Performance
- Anatomy and Physiology in Sport
- Sporting Injuries
- Fitness Testing
- School Sport Delivery
What are the entry requirements?
As a minimum candidates will need 5 GCSE’s, or equivalent at 4/C grade and above. Preferably this will include English and Maths, although pathways are available to those that just miss out on a 4/C Grade in these core subjects, whereby students will have the opportunity to retake their GCSE Maths/ English alongside the BTEC programme to achieve the necessary grades if not acquired at school.
How do I apply?
Are you young, hungry, determined and have aspirations to become a professional footballer? If yes, then Harrogate Town is for you!
For more information or to apply please email education@harrogatetownafc.com or visit Harrogate Town's website.
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