Leeds United College have launched a new educational partnership with the World's First Football Club and Leisure United.

New for September 2020, this Player Development Scholarship will provide outstanding educational opportunities alongside realistic player pathways at the St Georges Park Thorncliffe site in Sheffield.

This Scholarship programme provides a unique pathway for gifted and talented 16-18 year olds to access a first-class education combined with an elite training experience. Available to both male and female players, this full-time study programme will include a comprehensive range of support.

The educational framework will be delivered by Leeds United College staff committed to delivering an outstanding education.  The Scholarship includes a one-year Level 2 and a two-year Level 3 BTEC qualification designed to cover the core elements of sporting performance and excellence, such as; Anatomy, Physiology, Coaching, Psychology and Analysis.

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

Spencer Taylor, Director of Education at Leeds United, said: “The opportunity to bring the Leeds United College and its outstanding education programme to the St Georges Park Thorncliffe site, in partnership with the World’s First Football Club and Leisure United, will provide some exciting educational pathways for the students who join the programme in September 2020. 

“We are proud to be given this education vehicle to promote the positive brand of the Leeds United College in Sheffield.”

The Scholarship will be further enhanced by our partnership with the World’s First Football Club.  Sheffield FC will provide all players with a high quality football coaching programme conducted by a team of UEFA A/B licence coaches.  Players demonstrating high level performances will be given the opportunity to develop through the Sheffield FC system which includes, U18s U19s and first team football.

Chris Dolby, Director of Football for Sheffield FC, added: “We are very excited about this new partnership and believe this is another step forward in our strategic plan to improve young players. From the classroom to the training ground we are confident this programme will give students the opportunity to develop as young football players whilst getting a first class education.”

The programme will be delivered from St. George’s Park Thorncliffe in Sheffield, the second football hub to open as part of the FA Parklife programme. The FA and partners are focussed on significantly investing in and improving the provision and quality of grassroots facilities across the UK. The 3G artificial grass pitches offer year-round all-weather play.

Assessment days and interviews are being held now! Click here to apply or contact sportscollegeinfo@leedsunited.com for more information.