A NEW course is being launched that will give teenagers the opportunity to train with Saints coaches while working towards a career or university place.

City College Southampton has teamed up with the Saints Foundation to offer the BTEC National Diploma in Sport, which will focus on development, coaching and fitness when it launches in September.

The qualification, which is equivalent to three A levels, will give students the chance to train with Saints coaches at St Mary’s Stadium, as well as at other sporting venues in the city.

Ivan Gregory, executive director of teaching, learning and curriculum at City College, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people in Southampton and the surrounding area and we’re expecting huge demand.

“There aren’t many college courses around that give young people professional football training as part of their studies “The course will offer good progression opportunities and those who go straight into employment can expect to enter at a supervisory or technical trainee level, earning between £15k and £20k.

“This offers a clear route into a career in the leisure industry.”

Mark Abrahams, head of the Saints Foundation, added: “We are very pleased to be teaming up with City College to provide this course.

“Our aim is for the students to achieve their footballing potential through the expert tuition and professionalism of Southampton FC.”

Les Reed, executive director of the club’s football development & support centre, said: “This course will ensure students achieve their potential on the pitch and in the classroom and we look forward to working with the Saints Foundation and developing the students’ football and leisure industry career aspirations.”

• To find out more on the course contact the admissions team on (023) 8048 4848 or email Rowena.williams@southamptoncity.

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