Burton Albion Community Trust were proud to accompany six of its Football and Education learners to the University of South Wales for an engaging taster day, delivered as part of the Trust’s ongoing partnership with the EFL degree programme.
The event provided students with a unique insight into university life, combining academic sessions with practical sporting experience. Learners participated in a competitive football tournament, playing nine matches, and recording an impressive performance—losing only one game.
The taster day aimed to inform students about the blended learning degree pathway, which allows them to study from home while gaining valuable hands-on experience within a professional football club setting. In the afternoon, students attended classroom sessions where they explored the academic structure of the programme and discussed the broader opportunities available through higher education.
Jayne Gidman, Education Manager at Burton Albion Community Trust, praised the learners’ attitude and engagement: “It was a pleasure to take six of our students to the university taster day. They represented themselves and the programme brilliantly engaged, curious, and respectful throughout. It was fantastic to see them so inspired by the experience, asking thoughtful questions, and starting to visualise their futures in higher education. They were a credit to themselves and to our programme.”
Post-16 Co-ordinator James Billings echoed his sentiments: “Taking our six students to the university taster day was an incredibly proud moment. They approached the day with enthusiasm, maturity, and a real eagerness to learn. It was inspiring to watch them engage so positively with the sessions and begin to picture themselves in a university setting. They truly made the most of the opportunity and were outstanding ambassadors for the programme.”
For more information about the Football and Education programme, delivered in partnership with Burton and South Derbyshire College and Burton Albion Community Trust, please contact: james.billings@burtonalbionct.org
