Scholar secures university place

A Foundation of Light Football Scholar is celebrating after securing a place at the University of Sunderland. Josh Smith, 18, has been given an unconditional offer to study a BA (Hons) Sports Journalism after achieving outstanding grades in BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Performance and Excellence) during his time on the Scholarship programme. The youngster, from Sunderland, will enrol at the University this September with the hope of combining his passion for sport with a dream career in the media. "It feels great [to be going to university]," says Josh. "I'm over the moon knowing that all the hard work I have put in over the past two years has paid off. "Sports Journalism wasn't something I was interested in but whilst studying on the Scholarship I became aware of the different jobs in sport. "We looked at the positive and negative impact the media has on sport during the 'Current Issues in Sport' module which really opened my eyes to Sports Journalism. "Also, I have received good feedback from my tutors with regards to my writing style so I think I will be able to adapt to the degree really well."

"The Foundation of Light's Football Scholarship has given me the best possible opportunity to achieve this. I can't recommend the programme enough!"

Josh Smith, Foundation of Light Football Scholar

A member of the double-winning Monkwearmouth Scholars side, Josh joined the Scholarship to improve his football ability and get the qualifications, skills and experience needed to get into university and credits his tutors for helping him achieved the best grades possible. He adds: "From a football side, winning the NFYL Trophy at the Stadium of Light last year was a massive highlight but I've also enjoyed the education part immensely. "The Foundation staff challenged me to achieve high grades which has helped me get to where I want to be – going to university to study something I am really keen to try and make a career out of." Chris McMahon, Football Scholarship and Coaches Academy Lead Tutor, said: "Josh fully deserves this opportunity. "We are extremely proud what he has achieved through all the hard work he's put in over the past two years. "He is a perfect example of someone taking advantage of the various exit routes we offer in sport, education and employment and we wish him all the very best."