Inspire Suffolk, formerly the ITFC Charitable Trust, has announced the launch of its first girls’ education and football scholarship programme for 16-18-year-olds.
Following on from the success of their boys’ programme and the continued development of the women’s game, Inspire Suffolk is keen to offer girls the opportunity to progress their academic development while receiving ‘elite’ coaching on a daily basis.
The scholarship will offer 16-18-year-old girls the chance to work towards a BTEC Level 3 Extended diploma in Sport (equivalent to three A Levels) whilst playing 11-a-side football at a competitive national level and train full-time with our professional coaches.
The programme will challenge the girls’ academic capabilities and ensure the right level of support is available throughout each year.
The full-time course will run for two years, allowing the scholars to study using state-of-the-art computer platforms and to take part in valuable work experience opportunities with Inspire Suffolk and other relevant organisations associated with individual career choices.
Students will be enrolled through VLUK and Colchester Institute for the duration of the programme but based at Inspire Suffolk’s site in Ipswich.
Programme director Andy Crump explained: "In addition to the girls’ academic studies we are pleased to be working with Suffolk FA to provide the best opportunities for students to progress within the women’s game and their club football.
"By having the best coaching available, pathways for the girls to progress and the great work the county FA are doing within the women’s football, the programme will further enhance the girls and women’s game in the area as they move into U18s football.”
An open training and information evening will be held for any Year 11 girls wishing to continue their education whilst playing the game they love when they leave school this summer.
For further information, please use contact scholarship programme tutor Matt Cook by email via matthewc@inspiresuffolk.org.uk or call 01473 353192 or 07590983295.