Calling all aspiring coaches

Foundation of Light is holding information events during February half-term for school leavers who are passionate about a career in sports coaching.

Sunderland AFC's official charity is recruiting for its next Coaches Academy cohort due to start in September 2017 with current Year 11 pupils invited to attend the sessions at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday 22nd February at either 1pm or 5pm.

Coaches Academy is specifically designed to create the next generation of sports coaches and provide them with qualifications, skills and experience they need to succeed in their chosen profession. Based at South Tyneside College, the two-year programme includes an education element and works experience alongside fully qualified mentors from Foundation of Light delivering coaching sessions within the local community.

Learners will study towards a BTEC Level 2 or Level 3 in Sport (dependent on GCSE results) and FA Level 1 and 2 in Football Coaching alongside other national governing body coaching awards, opening up opportunities in higher education, national sports associations, sports and leisure companies, recreation services, local authorities, health bodies, schools and colleges. Trainees will be guaranteed an interview with Foundation of Light upon completion of the course.

Coaches Academy graduate Jack, who now works with the Foundation's Little Dribblers programme, said: "I always wanted to work in football and when I heard about Coaches Academy it seemed like an obvious choice.

"Lots of youngsters dream of playing professional football but as I got older I realised that coaching was more for me.

"Studying on the Coaches Academy was one of the best things I've ever done and I'd recommend the programme to everyone."

Gemma Bramley, World of Work Curriculum Lead at Foundation of Light, added: "The Coaches Academy is an ideal 'first step' for youngsters looking for a career in sport.

"It mixes nationally recognised qualifications with real-life coaching experience alongside our highly regarded coach mentors.

Since it's launch in 2014, 40% of graduates have gone into employment with 60% accessing Higher Education.

To book your place on the Coaches Academy open events, call Kayleigh Coates on 0191 5515077 or email kayleigh.coates@foundationoflight.co.uk.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs including Maths and English (Applicants who do not meet the Level 3 requirements will be considered for Level 2 on an individual basis).