League Football Education are the proud education and funding provider for Carlisle United Community Sports College, with a partnership in place for the past 10 years. Over this time, we have seen many students transition into higher education, gain their dream careers, and become well rounded individuals. The set up at Carlisle is fantastic with excellent classroom spaces, training facilities and additional technological advantages that gives learners a real key insight into not only professional sport, but also sport in its wider context using equipment such as GPS vests and VEO. All staff are motivated to enable learners to reach their full potential and consistently provide a welcoming, supportive learning environment. Not only do learners receive an excellent education within their Level 3 BTEC qualification, but Carlisle United Community Trust offer an excellent work experience provision to allow learners to gain suitable placements within the organisation, allowing them to develop not only within coaching, but also personally in areas such as communication, leadership and teamwork. 

The football development scholarship has been brilliant for me. It has helped me further my understanding in sport in many ways. The variety of units has been brilliant because I have been able to see what I enjoy within sport. The sports coaching units, sport nutrition and health & wellbeing units were very interesting. From the work experience gained on the course I have developed key skills such as communication, confidence, and organisation. This allowed me the opportunity to get some paid part time work with Carlisle United CST at their soccer schools and primary schools after school clubs. The course also allowed me to enjoy training and playing football regularly. We used GPS trackers and a Veo Camera which meant I could see what I did well and how I could make improvements to my performance. 

I have really enjoyed doing the course. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone to do things I wouldn’t normally do which has helped build my confidence. The course has also helped me academically with the help and support from my tutors. I have applied for university to do sports therapy, something I didn’t think I could achieve before starting the BTEC course. I have also really enjoyed the football aspect, playing at a high level against lots of different clubs like Manchester City and Everton. I have improved as a football player and also made new friends due to the social and team aspect. I have learned a lot about myself, developing as a person and a footballer. I would 100% recommend the course to anyone that is interested in sport. 

Carlisle United Community Sports Trust have been and are a valued and important delivery partner of the Foundation Degree programmes offered by University of South Wales and EFL Trust. Students studying the programme gain access to a supportive and engaging learning environment, allowing them to develop their knowledge, skills and experiences in a variety of areas including sports coaching, sports development, project management and sports science. CST also offer fantastic work placement opportunities within the programme, allowing students to gain experience and develop their skills in schools and community settings. As a result, students finishing the degree at CST are in a great position to start their careers and gain employment within the industry.

I have learned so much since starting the degree. The residential in August in Cardiff outlined all the content brilliantly so I had a clear view of the expectations for the year. The lectures and content have been great and the quality of feedback on my completed assignments from my club mentor and lecturers at USW have been of the highest quality. I’ve developed a lot in my academic skills through the lectures and practically have gained valuable experience in the sports placement opportunities. Overall it’s been a great experience and learning curve for myself as I expand my horizons in the sports industry and develop my skill set and knowledge in the different practical and theoretical elements of sport through this fantastic degree. I recommend this degree to anyone looking to develop in the field of sport.