An innovative new programme combining football and the classroom aims to help the young unemployed ‘get back in the game’.
Orangebox Training Solutions and Premier Player Football Academy have teamed up to launch a different kind of academy from Monday, April 19 serving Hartlepool and Middlesbrough.
The Orangebox Football Academy wants to give local teenagers over the age of 16, who are unemployed, a pathway towards gaining vital qualifications in a fun and engaging way.
Alongside receiving on-field coaching from ex-professionals Andy Collett and Phil Stamp, those enrolled will also receive football-related outcomes in communication, budgeting planning and preparation, advertising and marketing, problem-solving, role play and interview skills.
Collett, an ex-goalkeeper with over 250 appearances behind him, is a qualified coach and holds both the A Licence GK and UEFA B Outfield Coach badges. Stamp, the former Middlesbrough and Hearts midfielder, made his debut as a 17-year-old in 1993 and appeared in a FA Cup final at Wembley against Chelsea four years later.
Simon Corbett, CEO of Orangebox Training said: “This is a really exciting project for everyone. We will be offering additional training opportunities for youngsters in the community.
“Andy and I will be providing a safe environment for your youngsters to develop their existing skills and to help them learn new ones and signpost to careers opportunities.”
The classroom-based football activities will not only provide an insight to the life of a professional footballer but also provide the skills and knowledge required to embark on a career in sustainable employment with input from Careers Advice. The sessions will be completely fully funded by the European Social Fund.
Mr Collett, whose PPFA has worked with youngsters across the Tees Valley for a number of years, said: “We are aware that an increased number of our youngsters leave school with no qualification and we see this Academy as a way to develop life skills and help them towards gaining qualifications.
“Our Academy will not only provide the players with highest level of training on the pitch but also a strong education. That’s why we chose to partner with Orangebox Training, who has a proven track record in ensuring their students achieve fantastic results.”
Learners will connect to the Football Association and complete online courses in areas such as safeguarding, respect for coaches, equality and diversity. Back on the pitch they will then work on finishing in the final third, principles of play, playing out from the back, passing ranges and possession, among other things.
There will be guest speakers, including former professional players, referees, coaches and journalists. All learners will receive Orangebox Football Academy tracksuits and training kits.
For more information or to sign up check out www.orangeboxtraining.com or contact them directly on 01429 874530 or by emailing jobs@orangeboxtraining.com
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Press release issued by Orangebox Training Solutions Ltd For more information please contact Glen Hughes on 01429 874530 or 07703 051677 or email address info@orangeboxtraining.com
