Silsden AFC are the latest organisation to partner with Leeds United Sports College as part of the Elite Player Development Scholarship which is open to 16 to 18 year olds.

Students that are interested in taking on the course will study a Level 3 BTEC in Sport which will cover the core elements of performance and excellence and will be delivered by specialist tutors at Elland Road.

The course will particularly suit those who are wanting to enter employment in the sports industry as either a sports coach, physio, sports scientist or for those wishing to progress to higher education to study a sport-related degree such as coaching, sports therapy or sports science.

The coaching and games programme as part of the course will be managed by Silsden AFC with opportunities for player pathways into semi-professional football or international scholarships.

Spencer Taylor, Head of Education at Leeds United, said: “I’m delighted with the launch of this partnership with Silsden AFC.  After visiting the club and looking around the facilities, it was clear to see how community focused the club are.

“They have aspirations for development beyond football and they will place the quality of their player’s educational experience at the heart of this new programme.”

Silsden AFC will be holding an Open Evening on Wednesday 15th May from 6pm onwards. The event will enable parents and students to learn more about the scholarship and they will have the opportunity to ask any questions about the full two-year programme.

To reserve your place at the Open Evening, please contact Brian Blackwell, who is the Head of Youth at Silsden AFC, via email brianblackwell10@yahoo.co.uk.