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Leeds United gives unemployed teenagers career boost
UNITED FRONT: From left, apprentices Liam Fox, Matty Booth, Nick Walshaw, Steven Barlow, Josh Maskill, Ryan Whitaker and Byron Needham with Leeds United Foundations project officer Michael Kinsey.
Unemployed school leavers are getting the chance to kickstart a career in the sports industry with the help of Leeds United.
A dozen 16 to 18-year-olds are currently taking NVQ Level 2 qualifications in activity leadership and customer service at the club’s Elland Road ground.
The initiative has been organised by the Leeds United Foundation in partnership with the Government’s Skills Funding Agency (SFA).
During the 48-week course, the teenagers will be trained in everything from leadership skills to customer services and health and safety.
But they will also learn all about football coaching.
And it is hoped that a number of the participants will eventually be taken on as children’s soccer coaches with the foundation – United’s charitable arm.
Foundation project officer Michael Kinsey said: “We’re delighted to be offering this new training programme which really helps to secure the futures of unemployed young people in Leeds, who often find that school just isn’t for them and have a real passion for coaching.
“The programme is designed to give youngsters a unique insight into the sports industry and equip them with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed. It also gives us the opportunity to spot real coaching talent and take people on permanently.”
One participant Josh Maskill, 16, from Farsley, and a United season ticket holder, said: “I’m a big Leeds fan so it’s great to be working with my favourite club. I hope to be kept on as a coach at the end of the course, and if not, I’d like to find work in a school or somewhere where my skills are needed.”
Plans are being put in place for more recruits to join later this year.
Leeds United’s Football In The Community scheme was relaunched as the Leeds United Foundation at the start of last year. It is an approved education provider for 14 to 19-year-olds.
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