Leeds United College have created an international working partnership with Ouachita Baptist University and Longford International College.

This new partnership will be based around a joint pursuit of education and learning with all three parties sharing ideas and working together on joint research projects and scientific initiatives.

As part of the working relationship there will be a collaborative approach to hosting seminars, workshops, and masterclasses for students, with guest speakers invited to attend various lectures and free access given to the facilities at each institution.

The Leeds United College will also be working towards creating a joint degree with Ouachita Baptist University, which is based in Arkansas in the US, and Longford International College, based in Ireland, adding to the existing programmes already available through the club’s official college.

Spencer Taylor, Director of Education at Leeds United, said: “We’re really pleased to launch this new and exciting partnership between the Leeds United College, Ouachita Baptist University and our friends at Longford International College in Ireland.

“It will be great to see the relationship progress over time, with all parties working together to create opportunities and experiences for young students to study and learn whilst also developing important research and initiatives.”

Dr. Stan Poole, Vice President for Academic Affairs at the Ouachita Baptist University, said: “Ouachita Baptist University has a long history of international engagement, including our first partnership with an overseas university in the 1970s. We’re excited about the possibilities for expanding global opportunities through our newest partnership with the Leeds United College in the UK and Longford International College in Ireland.

“We’re especially eager to explore how the partnership can provide access to exceptional high-impact learning experiences that deepen our students’ classroom knowledge and understanding. We also look forward to collaborating with our partners to consider unique graduate-level programs that take advantage of the strengths of our diverse institutions.”

Professor Vincent English FRSA, added: “Longford International College is delighted to be a part of this exciting opportunity with the Leeds United College and Ouachita Baptist University. We believe in the power of football and education together and how it can break down cultural barriers, bring people together and make a positive difference to the lives of many.

“Education is also a path to freedom from poverty, and we believe in education being a right and not a privilege. Longford College is also delighted to be part of an innovative approach to education where the rigour of academia is balanced against the practical approach.”