Young people from deprived areas of Cheshire and Lancashire will have the opportunity to gain sports qualifications alongside full-time employment, thanks to a new apprenticeship programme.
The scheme will create opportunities for one hundred 16-24 year olds over the next five years. Apprentices on the programme will receive formal Level 2 and Level 3 sports coaching qualifications whilst working with local sports or youth-based employers. The first cohort of apprentices are expected to start the 15-month programme in September 2024.
The programme is being delivered by Coach Core and the Westminster Foundation, supported by Active Cheshire and Active Lancashire.
The Westminster Foundation provides funding to support organisations that play a role in preventing long-term systematic problems for children and young people. It has awarded a grant of £500,000 to Coach Core to deliver the sports coaching apprenticeship.
Coach Core will work alongside local employers to deliver the scheme in the region. Programme apprentices will get hands on experience of coaching in schools, youth centres and sports clubs.
Mike Watson, chief executive of Active Cheshire, said “We are working closely with Coach Core to focus recruitment in areas where barriers and lack of opportunities for young people are most prevalent.”
Active Cheshire aims to get more people, more active, more often living longer, happier and healthier lives.
“It is anticipated the apprentices will deliver over 100,000 coaching sessions to nearly 1.5 million session participants over the five-year programme,” continued Mike.
Programme graduates are expected to move into employment, training or further education, with many going on to coach sport and physical activity in their local communities, supporting people to be more active.
Employers and organisations interested in being part of the new apprenticeship programme can contact paul.thompson@coachcore.org for more information.