A partnership to bring football and the classroom together has started its second season.

Furness College has teamed up with Barrow AFC to launch the second cohort of the College Football Academy.

Furness College sport tutor Glyn Chapman said: “The partnership with Barrow AFC is a great opportunity for any students interested in careers within the sport industry because it allows them to experience what goes on in all aspects.

“This partnership means we are able to access the expert facilities at Barrow AFC and our students are offered placements with Barrow AFC to work alongside some of their staff.”

Eleven new students have joined the course, which combines a Level 3 Sport Diploma with the chance to train and learn the business aspects of football with Barrow AFC coaches.

The Mail:

Students are taught by specialist tutors at the Channelside campus and enjoy practical learning with professional coaches from Barrow AFC.

Royanna Davies, who plays for Morecambe Ladies, said: “I am enjoying the Football Academy as I can improve my skills and tactics through the practical coaching sessions along with learning about different areas of sport to get qualifications to help me work in sport in the future.”

Another student Sam Johnstone said: “On the course I get to work on being a better player in the coaching sessions and in the classroom learn about lots about sport so I could have a career working in sport.”

The Mail:

The programme aims to develop player’s technical ability alongside academic skills and prepare learners for a job in the sport and fitness industry or progression to further study at university.

Barrow Chief Executive, Levi Gill added: “As a club, we want to play a role at the heart of our community so this partnership, bringing education and professional development to students through Furness College, is something we take great pride in.”