FOOTBALL & EDUCATION PROGRAMME
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW Our Football and Education Programme at Wigan Athletic Community Trust offers a dynamic and engaging pathway for students aged 16–18 who are passionate about football and interested in pursuing a career within the sports industry. This full-time programme combines academic study with practical football development, giving students the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised BTEC qualification in Sport (Coaching & Development). The course is designed to develop not only football ability, but also essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, and professionalism, providing a strong foundation for employment or progression onto our USW Higher Education degree pathways.
WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR? This programme is ideal for students who: • • • • •
Have a passion for football and sport Enjoy both practical and classroom learning Are interested in a career in the sports industry Want to develop their football performance alongside education Are motivated, committed, and willing to work as part of a team
1 in 4 students move into sport-related careers or further training
All learners develop key employability skills: teamwork, leadership, communication
Equivalent to up to 3 A Levels, opening pathways to university or employment
100% of students receive both an academic qualification and personal development support
Enhanced confidence reported by over 90% of participants
80%+ of students’ progress into Higher Education, employment, or apprenticeships
QUALIFICATIONS & STUDY PATHWAYS We offer two levels of study depending on your previous academic results. Both courses seamlessly blend classroom learning with practical application.
Maths and English: Within any of our BTEC courses, if you have not achieved a grade 4 in your Maths and English, you will resit these as part of your course. This will not affect you studying or playing, and you will be provided with a designated teacher to allow you to achieve in these areas.
BTEC LEVEL 2 DIPLOMA IN LEADING COMMUNITY ACTIVITY (1-YEAR PROGRAMME) Key topics include:
Entry Requirements:
Working in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry Roles and Responsibilities of a Community Activity Leader Planning, Promoting, and Delivering Community Activity
You must achieve at least three GCSEs at grade 3 or above (or equivalent). You must also achieve at least a grade 2 in both Maths AND English.
BTEC LEVEL 3 NATIONALS IN SPORTS COACHING (2-YEAR PROGRAMME) Key topics include:
Entry Requirements:
• Developing and Applying Coaching Skills • Health, Wellbeing, and Sports Nutrition • Sports Injuries and Performance Analysis • Organising Sports Events and Sports Development • The Influence of Technology in Sport
Level 3 Diploma: You must achieve at least four GCSEs at grade 4 (or equivalent). This must include Maths OR English at grade 4. Level 3 Extended Diploma: You must achieve at least five GCSEs at grade 4 (or equivalent). This must include Maths AND English at grade 4+
THE FOOTBALL PROGRAMME Alongside academic studies, you will take part in a comprehensive football programme that mirrors a professional environment. This includes: • Professional Coaching: Training sessions weekly delivered by UEFA-qualified coaches. • Competitive Fixtures: Weekly matches against other colleges, professional academy trusts, and development teams in EFL’s CEFA league • Player Development: Performance analysis, video match recording, and individual player development plans. • The Essentials: Playing/training kit and matchday transport are provided. Our programme is designed to support players of all levels, whether your goal is to improve your tactical understanding, play for enjoyment, or continue playing competitively at a grassroots or local level.
WORK EXPERIENCE & CAREER PATHWAYS Real-world experience is vital in the sports industry. Students will build a strong CV by gaining hands-on experience through: • • • •
Coaching in local schools and community settings. Supporting grassroots football programmes and holiday camps. Volunteering at official Community Trust events and initiatives. Gaining matchday and stadium event experience.
FUTURE PATHWAYS Upon successful completion of the programme, students have a wide variety of academic and career pathways available:
HIGHER EDUCATION:
CAREERS IN SPORT:
• Internal progression routes to our partner university (University of South Wales). • Degrees in sport-related fields such as Sports Coaching, Sports Science, or Sports Management.
• Football coaching (from grassroots to elite pathways). • Sports development and community programme management. • Fitness instruction and personal training • Talent ID, scouting, and recruitment.
ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES: • FA coaching qualifications (subject to availability). • Apprenticeships within the sport and leisure industry. • Employment opportunities within the Community Trust.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH WALES Take your education to the next level through our partnership with the University of South Wales (USW) and EFL in the Community. We offer dynamic degree pathways designed to transition you directly into a career in sport.
YOUR DEGREE PATHWAYS
PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
• Foundation Degree in Community Football Coaching and Development • Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching and Development • BA Hons Sports Business and Management
• Blended Learning: Study locally, fully supported by USW’s online learning platforms. • University Residentials: Access top-tier sports facilities and experience campus life during residential trips to the USW Cardiff campus. • Real-World Experience: Complete up to 200 hours of practical coaching in the community alongside Trust and Academy staff. • Comprehensive Curriculum: Earn National Governing Body qualifications while mastering youth coaching, sports development, and management.
OUR ALUMNI “Completing my BTEC on the Football and Education Programme alongside being part of the Women’s First Team has allowed me to combine two things I’m really passionate about. “The practical side of the programme has been one of my favourite aspects, as it keeps learning engaging and helps develop real-life skills. Since starting the course, I have been motivated to achieve my UEFA C qualification and have been working within the coaching industry, delivering 1-to-1, 2-to-1 and small group sessions for a private coaching company. I also volunteer weekly with the Wigan School Girls District Team. The confidence I’ve gained through the programme has played a huge part in helping me take on these opportunities. “The staff have been really supportive throughout my journey and have always been there to offer guidance, encouragement and support whenever I’ve needed it.” Holly, Level 3 BTEC Programme | Wigan Athletic Women’s First Team
“The Football & Education programme really helped me grow in confidence and gave me an environment where I felt comfortable enough to push myself and look for opportunities outside of college. Having that freedom played a big part in me gaining experience with several football clubs and developing my career within the game. I’m now 18 and working within the game as a Head of Recruitment, and will continue to progress within the game through further development at the University of South Wales, linked with the Community Trust. The programme also made the transition into university really straightforward, and I think a lot of the confidence I have now to put myself out there and create opportunities stemmed from being in an environment that worked well for me.” Cain, Level 3 BTEC Programme | University of South Wales
“Community Trust Education has allowed me to develop in both personal and professional ways. I, along with others, have seen a massive improvement in my confidence. This has enabled me to access new opportunities and take the right steps towards achieving a career that I would love to pursue. “Thank you so much.” Caitlyn, Level 3 BTEC Programme | University of South Wales | Full-time employment within Community Sport
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP? Join our Football & Education Programme and gain the skills, qualifications, and playing opportunities to help you achieve your goals both on and off the pitch. Apply now by scanning the QR code below.
KEY CONTACT INFORMATION Ella Schickhoff: Education Support Lead e.schickhoff@wiganathletic.com / 07553 168130 Phil Corrigan: Post-16 Lead p.corrigan@wiganathletic.com / 07850 645190 Instagram: @laticscommunitybtec
Wigan Athletic Community Trust 01942 318090 | community@wiganathletic.com wiganathletic.com
@LaticsCommunity
TURN YOUR PASSION FOR FOOTBALL INTO YOUR FUTURE.
Registered Charity Number 1120745