Telford College is taking learning far beyond the playing field with its expanded programme of sports courses.
Fitness training, physiotherapy, coaching skills, and sports psychology are just some of the many topics to be explored as part of the new-look programme.
From September, the college will be running three different level three sport courses – equivalent to three A levels – in Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Coaching and Physical Education, and Football Education in partnership with Wolves Foundation.
The new Sport and Exercise Science programme explores how professional athletes can maximise their potential, how the human body responds to exercise, and how psychological factors influence sport and exercise performance.
For those who are passionate about coaching and leading in the sports industry, the Sports Coaching and Physical Education programme is an opportunity to lead school sports competitions in cricket, golf, football, and regional finals for sports hall athletics.
Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation has also teamed up with Telford College to relaunch its ‘Football & Education’ programme – a chance to obtain a sports qualification alongside enrichment opportunities with the Premier League club.
Andy Turner, director of vocational studies at the college, said: “Our Sport and Exercise Science course provides an excellent springboard onto higher education for sports science, and is an ideal preparation for careers in fitness, training, rehabilitation, physiotherapy or sports psychology.
“Our industry expert lecturers have a wealth of experience in the fitness and leisure industry. If you’ve enjoyed PE or biology at school and have an interest in fitness, this course will take you to the next level of understanding.”
Melanie Newbrook, learner manager for sport and public services, said: “On the Coaching and Physical Education course, you’ll also learn to use player data GPS and Veo cameras – used in top-level sport around the world – to analyse performance, and hear from a wide range of guest speakers.
“Our graduates have gone on to become PE teachers, sports coaches, business owners, and more.
“In addition to the practical sports lessons, our sports academy provides the perfect opportunity for you to be coached by professional coaches in football, basketball and volleyball, and represent the college in competitive fixtures across the region.”
The two-year course with Wolves will feature various enrichment opportunities, including representing Wolves Foundation in fixtures against other professional club foundation teams.
It includes visits to the club’s Molineux stadium and Compton Park training ground, gaining insight from professionals across a variety of careers in football.
The new Telford College sports programme also includes a flexible level two Sport course, running for a year, which can open the door to careers in the sport and leisure industry.
It has a focus on practical sports, nutrition for the sports performer, anatomy and physiology, planning and leading in sport, and psychology for the sports performer.
