Kick off your career in sport with the Chesterfield FC Community Trust Football and Education Programme, where education meets opportunity and passion meets purpose.
This unique programme gives students the chance to study for industry-recognised qualifications while representing their local professional football club. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to gain an in-depth understanding of the sports industry, both on and off the pitch.
Study, Train and Succeed
Our Education Football Programme offers a range of bespoke Post-16 and Higher Education qualifications, delivered at the SMH Group Stadium. Students learn from qualified teachers, experienced coaches, and dedicated support staff across the Trust, in partnership with SCL Education, Outwood Academy and Loughborough College.
Courses include the NCFE Level 1, 2 and 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity, the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, A Levels, and the Higher National Diploma (Foundation Degree) in Sport, Coaching, Science and Business.
Each course is designed to help students develop practical skills, confidence and knowledge to prepare for a successful future in the sports industry and beyond.
What to Expect
Students train in professional facilities, gaining first-hand experience of what it’s like to be part of a football club environment. They take part in regular training sessions, strength and conditioning work and competitive fixtures, all supported by UEFA and FA qualified coaches.
Learners represent Chesterfield FC in the National Football Youth League and the Association of Colleges League, competing against teams from clubs such as Everton, Sunderland, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal.
There are also exciting progression routes into both men’s and women’s football, international player development links and opportunities for football scholarships with leading sports universities.
Course Overview
- NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Sport
The NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Sport is intended for learners aged 16 and over and aims to help support the learner’s personal development through acquiring skills and knowledge in sport, exercise, and fitness. The qualification also allows learners to gain personal transferable skills that can be applied to the workplace or further study. The NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Sport is designed as a 1-year, full time course and will provide the foundations to progress onto the NCFE Level 2 Diploma in Sport
- NCFE Level 2 Diploma in Sport
The NCFE Level 2 Diploma in Sport (Sports Coaching) is intended for learners aged 16 and over and provides the introductory skills to either start a career in sport or develop knowledge and skills that can be transferred to other industries. This qualification can also prepare learners for apprenticeships or further study. The NCFE Level 2 Diploma in Sport (Sports Coaching) is designed as a 1-year, full time course and will provide foundations to progress onto the NCFE L3 Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity.
- NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport & Physical Activity
The NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity (Sports Coaching) is intended for learners aged 16 and over and provides the knowledge, skills and understanding required within the sport and physical activity sector. It will also allow learners to gain transferable skills and progress to employment, an apprenticeship or higher education in a sport-related or different sector in line with career aspirations.
- BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development is intended for post-16 learners wanting to progress to employment, including self-employment, in sports coaching and roles such as sport development officer. The National Foundation Diploma is a one-year, full-time course. Learners can gain UCAS points as below but will usually need to complete the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (1 additional year) to be able to progress to university:
- AQA A-Level Psychology
Learners will study a BTEC/NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, to develop a wide range of vocational knowledge and skills in combination with an A-Level in Psychology over two years. Learners will also explore psychology in context by applying psychological knowledge and understanding in a range of different contexts.
Why Choose Us
You will learn in a professional football environment and gain recognised qualifications and UCAS points. You will train and play under UEFA and FA qualified coaches while developing skills for careers in sport, coaching or further education. There are also opportunities to progress into football pathways or university study.
Ready to Take the Next Step
Download our full prospectus at SCL Education
To register your interest and start your journey in sport, please contact:
Girls Pathway: Michelle Slater
📧 michelleslater@spireitestrust.org.uk
Boys Pathway: Nathan Khan
📧 nathankhan@cfcct.org.uk