UCAS deadlines are rapidly approaching so we spoke to our second-year student, Connor Vale, about the qualifications he has gained, his experience at the Foundation so far and the opportunities that have arose from studying here.
The Foundation, in partnership with University of South Wales (USW) and EFL Trust, offers a two-year Foundation Degree opportunity in either Sports Coaching or Football Development. An optional third 'top up' year to gain a full BsC is also available.
The Foundation is also able to offer a full BA(Hons) degree in Business Development.
Both, the Foundation and USW, experienced a record-breaking year for applicants and we are aiming to achieve more in the upcoming 2025/2026 academic year.
Connor would "definitely recommend" the course to others who share a similar desire to be involved with sports and believes it brings fulfilment to see the impact he is having on children's development within the sport at such an early stage of his career.
"It's been a brilliant experience that has helped me in multiple areas, such as gaining qualifications and work opportunities. My confidence in my coaching ability has skyrocketed as well.
"I've gained my FA level one in Football Coaching, Multi-Skills level one and I am in the process of achieving my UEFA C badge - none of which would have been possible if I wasn't a student at the Foundation."
Fylde Sports and Education Centre serves as a satellite campus of USW, where a balance of pre-recorded and in-person lectures are presented to the students. Our Football and Education Co-ordinator, Connor Williams, oversees the students as their mentor.
"Studying at a satellite campus has been a great experience. We've had different people come in and provide us with insightful lectures from their own personal experiences."
Studying at the Foundation is far more than just theory work, we want to prepare our students for life after education and equip them for the 'real world'.
"I 100% believe I've benefitted from the opportunities to work at the Foundation. Before I even started the course they let me work on their Holiday Camps throughout the summer which I would never have had the opportunity to do so without this course.
"I've become one of the Foundation's Casual Coaches, so alongside the camps I now go to local schools we are partnered with and provide sessions for them and assisting our Development Centre.
"I'm a manager of an under 9s team in my local village. My experiences at the Foundation and my studies have provided me with the confidence to take on the responsibility of a grassroots team at the age of 22.
"I've also been able to learn from the AFC Fylde academy coaches and shadow some of their sessions which has been eye-opening."
If you or someone you know would be interested in studying at the Foundation, please email: connor.williams@afcfylde.co.uk.
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