Students studying for a BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Construction & the Built Environment can now incorporate an additional Level 1 Award in Football Coaching.

Denis Metcalf, Student Liaison Officer and Football Academy coach at Leeds College of Building, said: “To my knowledge, no other specialist colleges like ours offer a football academy like this alongside non-sports courses.

“This is the perfect option for anyone interested in developing their football skills whilst studying a construction BTEC. By the end of the course, students will have a Level 2 qualification suitable for various careers in construction but also be qualified as a Level 1 Football Coach.

“This tailor-made course offers more vocational options. It aims to provide a broad understanding of the construction industry, while giving students the freedom to play football every Wednesday in the ESFA College league.

“Students train every Monday with a qualified UEFA B football coach at Goals Soccer Centre and become a level 1 football coach – all in one year!”

The BTEC programme includes units on construction technology, scientific and mathematical applications, design, processes and operations, and drawing techniques.

It also incorporates elements of carpentry and joinery, brickwork, painting and decorating, and plastering, ensuring students are even more employable and able to specialise as they enter the construction industry.

Simultaneously, the football academy programme teaches a range of transferable skills, player and coach development, passing, shooting, dribbling and attacking, FA Emergency Aid, and FA Safeguarding.