Central YMCA Sports Education Programmes

Combine your passion for sport with first-class education

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Our 16-18 full-time education and sport provision is the perfect place for you to springboard your career.

Education Programmes

We have partnered with a number of Sports Clubs across the UK to offer players between 16-19 years of age with an outstanding fully-funded education programme to go alongside high performing, professional sports training.This is the chance for you to train and play like a pro with expert coaches whilst studying towards a substantial qualification. Learners are expected to put in as much work academically as they do practically, ensuring they are on the right path to establishing themselves in the industry.

About Your Programme:

Sports training: You will work on your game while being coached by expert coaches.
Your qualification: Study towards a Level 2 or Level 3 diploma to guarantee you keep your options open in the industry
Personal and professional development: The programme is enhanced with a series of activities and tutorials that might range from CV writing to nutrition advice or planning how to rent your first flat.
Maths and English: If you have not yet achieved a grade 4-9 (formerly A+ – C) in GCSE Maths and/or English, you will continue to study these subjects at your level.
Outstanding support: We will give you full support with a wide range of education and welfare needs and you will learn in a friendly, positive and supportive environment.

Key Information

Locations
Ashton-under-Lyne, Cheadle, Derby, Nottingham, Oldham, Stockport, West Yorkshire, Whitefield, and Wimborne

Start date
September 2025

Duration
2 to 3 years
Mon – Fri, 9:30am – 4pm

What next?

Our Sports Education Programmes offer clear routes to semi-professional and professional sport, as well as University. Sports have evolved to be about more than just the players. We work closely with learners to identify areas of interest off the pitch, then guide them towards the job role within sport that matches that interest. Your career could include Coaching, Scouting, Physiotherapy, Personal Training and many more.

Curzon Ashton Football Club crest featuring a blue circular design with a green coat of arms, surrounded by golden laurel leaves. Founded in 1963.

Ashton-under-Lyne: Curzon Ashton FC

Qualifications

Cheadle: Cheadle Town FC

Qualifications

Derby: Matlock

Qualifications

Nottingham: PMG

Qualifications

Oldham: iSports

Qualifications

Stockport: Reddish North End FC

Qualifications

West Yorkshire: Yorkshire Amateur Football Club

A full-time, 2 year football scholarship within a semi-professional football club, combined with education

Qualifications

Logo of "The College of Rugby" featuring a rugby ball and a shield with burgundy and cream colors.

Whitefield: College of Rugby

Qualifications

Wimborne: Wimborne Town FC

Qualifications