Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence Welcome to the Apprenticeship Contents in Sporting Excellence

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Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence Welcome to the Apprenticeship Contents in Sporting Excellence

The Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE) Over the next two years as an apprentice, the programme offers each apprentice the chance focus will undoubtedly be on progressing through to fulfil his dream of becoming a professional the youth and development sides to the first-team. footballer, while at the same time providing him However, the education programme is also a key with the opportunity to develop academic skills factor in developing a broader identity that can in an environment suitable for his all-round contribute to success on and off the pitch. As a personal development. result, it is crucial to remain committed and set goals and targets which will provide a platform to We realise that for many youngsters the achieve the qualifications. Welcome 3 apprenticeship is both an exciting but daunting proposition, so the purpose of this booklet is to try I would encourage all apprentices to make the Foreword 4 to provide you with the information that will help most of this exciting and privileged opportunity, About Us 6 you better understand the apprentice journey. ensuring they enjoy the all-round experience and realise that it is essential to maintain focus on Our Partners 8 League Football Education will work hard to football and education. provide a supportive environment to allow Keeping you informed 10 apprentices to thrive, while positive input from We hope this booklet gives you a good parents/guardians is also vitally important. introduction to LFE and answers many of your Player & Club Testimonials 12 questions, but if not, a list of LFE contacts is The transition from full-time schooling to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence 14 available for you to approach and receive rigours and demands of training and playing every further guidance. Change of Circumstances 25 day is a challenging but rewarding experience.

Discipline 27

Safeguarding 29

Equality & Diversity 30

Health & Safety 31

Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare (PDBW), Life Skills and Progression 32

Celebrating Success 39

Additional Information 40

Contacts 42

LFE Online 43

www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 3 A word from Joe Thompson

I would like to offer a warm welcome to the Being identified as ‘the footballer’ follows you Ultimately, if you world of full-time football and in particular to the around as a young person in an academy and so Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence. it’s healthy to have another string to your bow. can look yourself Having won Apprentice of the Year back in 2007, It’s an exciting time as a 16-year-old to earn a two- I’m living proof that showing dedication to the year apprenticeship at a professional football club. in the mirror after academic side of things doesn’t mean that you It really is the start of a journey. are limiting your chances in gaining a professional two years and say You’ve got to have that focus and motivation contract. to have your own mind and keep following the ‘I gave it my all Throughout the two years, you will also have path you want to lead. Setbacks and failures are multiple Life Skills sessions, which are so something you will have to deal with along the in every aspect’ important. All of the different elements, like mental way. At times you will need the resilience to go health, addiction, social media and personal again, but that is part and parcel of football and then that’s all you development, are things that you need to be life in general. aware of in order to stay healthy. There’s an air of can ask for Everyone develops at different stages within the maturity and a willingness to learn that comes with two-year apprenticeship. You might not play developing as a person, which then transfers onto that much in your first year and then get a lot of the pitch. opportunities in your second year. The moral of Ultimately, if you can look yourself in the mirror the story is that you’ve got to be ready at all times. after two years and say ‘I gave it my all in every The apprenticeship helps you with this. There are aspect’ then that’s all you can ask for. If it goes your many reminders of the stats that show that almost way then brilliant, if it doesn’t then there’s more to half of apprentices gain a professional contract life than football. It doesn’t define who you are and and there are different options and avenues that you might find another passion along the way that you can take. For example, I know some from my you’d rather pursue. group at Rochdale that went on to get scholarships I would recommend being open-minded and in America. You’re shaping your life and you need always be willing to listen. Anyone that’s trying to make sure you’ve got plans in place for any to teach you or explain a message, you’ve got to eventuality. ask yourself why they’re doing it. Either they’ve I’ve seen towards the end of my career that your experienced it and they’ve learned the lesson football will flourish if you’re comfortable and you themselves, or they know someone that has, so know that you’ve got alternatives in place. If you’ve they’re just trying to help you and it’s important to put all your eggs in one basket and discard your take on board that wisdom. education and then football doesn’t pan out as Good luck and very best wishes. you wished, you’re left with nothing. There are many transferable skills involved. Joe Thompson Former pro footballer, two-time cancer survivor Although you’ve been used to using your body as amd now motivational speaker your tool, that doesn’t mean you can’t engage your brain. You learn about time-keeping, discipline, sacrifice, teamwork and that your diet and your well-being are important.

4 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 5 About us

League Football Education was established by The English Football League and The Professional Footballers Association

Who are we? Why are we here? LFE was established by The English Football We are here to manage and operate the League and The Professional Footballers apprenticeship programme on behalf of all Association to manage the apprenticeship English Football League clubs. programme. LFE is funded by the Education and Skills Funding We have 27 staff, with 13 working across the Agency, the European Social Fund and by country dealing with club and college staff football. The education programme has been to support apprentices throughout their two designed by our sector skills council SkillsActive years. LFE aim to help all apprentices achieve in partnership with football authorities and the full educational framework and to support government agencies. apprentices moving into positive destinations Our Regional Officers are your direct link with at the end of the programme. LFE. They are the people who you can turn to Our Regional Officers visit apprentices on a for help and advice on any subject during the regular basis to monitor progress. Any problems next two years. Our Regional Officers and all or concerns can be raised with them. LFE staff are here to ensure that apprentices are given the best chance possible to fully benefit from the ASE programme. Your Regional Officer should be your first point of contact with LFE, however you can also speak to central office staff. Contact information for all staff can be found on page 42.

Did you know... Our Regional Officers visit apprentices on a regular basis to monitor progress. Any problems or concerns can be raised with them.

6 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 7 Our Partners

The Professional Footballers Association English Football League (EFL)

The world’s longest established professional Today the PFA directly and indirectly employs History Youth Development over 250 people in key areas such as, education sportsmen’s union, the Professional Footballers Formed in 1888 by its twelve founder members, It is the EFL’s long-term ambition to continue to and training for post-football careers, accident Association was formed in 1907 at the Imperial under the direction of pioneer William McGregor, create more and better opportunities for young and medical insurance, coaching, financial Hotel Manchester, and has continued to the English Football League (EFL) is the world’s players to become professional footballers, management, contract advice and pension develop and expand. original league football competition and is the investing over £90million into Youth Development management for the benefit of more than template for leagues the world over. each season. Contact the PFA through your club 4,000 current members and 50,000 former Its 72 member clubs embody the unique heritage, Last season, almost 45% of EFL scholars gained a representative or write to: members worldwide. pride and passion of the communities that they professional contract with an EFL club, with those The PFA works alongside many other national The PFA represent, providing the game with a platform to that were unsuccessful gaining support from and international bodies and has carried out 20 Oxford Court become a truly global phenomenon. League Football Education to move into further projects in key areas such as drug awareness Bishopsgate education, semi-professional football or full-time and testing and an anti-racism campaign. Manchester Competitions employment. The national team are also M2 3WQ All the benefits of PFA membership are available The Sky Bet EFL is comprised of three divisions – benefiting from the strength and depth of EFL club to apprentices, these include: the Sky Bet Championship, Sky Bet League One academies, with 20 out of the 23 players in the T: 0161 236 0575 England 2018 World Cup squad having either • Discretionary post-18 educational grant system and Sky Bet League Two – with 24 teams in each www.thepfa.com division. 552 regular season matches per division come through EFL academies, made their debuts • Contractual assistance/player management culminate in the high and lows of the end-of-season in the EFL or played on loan in the EFL. • Representation on disciplinary issues Play-Offs, including three showpiece finals at In its aim to provide young footballers a clear Wembley Stadium. • Access to legal and financial advice pathway of progression from Academy to first team, Alongside league competitions, the Carabao Cup EFL clubs agreed to include seven home grown It is highly recommended you join was established in 1960 and is English football’s players on team sheets. The EFL also introduced a the PFA. The Costs are £20 per year midweek cup competition, featuring all 72 EFL requirement for at least one club-developed player plus a one-off joining fee of £20. Clubs and 20 from the Premier League, with the to be named on each team sheet for any EFL winners of the competition receiving entry into the League game at the start of the 2018/19 season. following season’s UEFA Europa League. Community Did you know... A second midweek competition, the Checkatrade Off the pitch, the EFL Trust and Club Community The PFA looks after more Trophy, comprises of all 48 Sky Bet League One Schemes work tirelessly, using the power of football than 4,000 current members and League Two Clubs, as well as 16 invited to positively impact towns, cities and people’s lives and 50,000 former members U21 teams. The competition has a history of up and down the country. Connecting people of all worldwide. promoting innovation and opportunity, having ages and backgrounds, the EFL Trust network undergone several changes in format since its changes people’s lives by improving health, inception in 1983. boosting education and bringing communities closer together. The EFL is committed to ensuring inclusivity across all reaches of the game and that the League’s 72 clubs reflect the diverse nature of the communities they represent.

8 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 9 Keeping you informed No. 37 / FEBRUARY 2019

Publications GETTING YOUR The talented forward had earned a by scoring a hat-trick against Wales and was professional contract at Stevenage having awarded England C Player of the Year for made his first-team debut before the 2017-18 before Shrewsbury came calling completion of his apprenticeship, but in June to end Okenabirhie’s three-year was released after a year and ended up absence from the EFL. Publications include Touchline, our quarterly dropping to the Isthmian League Premier Division with Harrow Borough. “You have to have belief in your ability, know what you want and then work hard to Former Arsenal schoolboy Okenabirhie achieve it,” he added. “When you’re playing LFETV showcases our Goal of the Month grew up playing alongside Gunners stars LFE is committed to supporting all apprentices every week, every game is an opportunity magazine, and guides to support players Alex Iwobi and Ainsley Maitland-Niles, but in for someone to see you and that’s how you his words, “everyone’s journey is different”. have to approach it. Undeterred by the setback, the 22-year-old “If your attitude isn’t right then you’ve got no competition which features the best goals from pursued a route into higher education to throughout and beyond their two-year considering Higher Education or soccer chance to make those steps because there MARVIN SORDELL TALKS aid his attempts to rise back up the leagues, are a lot of setbacks in football, like being ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE which has taken him from the seventh tier of injured or not being selected, so you have to English football to Sky Bet League One with be ready for them and show you’re capable apprenticeships. all the Academy Leagues and attracts over 25,000 scholarships in the USA. OF PUTTING MENTAL Shrewsbury Town. of pushing through them. HEALTH FIRST He told LFE: “When you’re an apprentice, “If you’re not mentally prepared to work there are no guarantees that you’ll get a hard or you’re not able to use adversity and professional contract, so to give myself the turn it into positive energy then that’s half best opportunity to get back into education viewers each season. the battle lost. Mental strength is a massive I decided to study an A-Level in Psychology, factor in football. You have to take it upon We have developed a number of channels in addition to the BTEC. yourself to take an honest look at your game “It was something I wanted to do and was and analyse where you want to improve.” able to do. It was quite tough at times to Combining the role of player and student balance the two but I’m pleased I got them continues to breed success for the Shrews to engage everyone associated with the We utilise an e-learning platform to manage the done and it didn’t negatively affect my frontman, with 14 goals to his name in all football because I still got a pro contract at competitions so far this season, including the end as well. the equaliser in an incredible 3-2 FA Cup apprenticeship programme. education programme and to provide players “Education gives you something to fall back third round victory at Stoke City. on in terms of giving you knowledge and “It’s important to not get too high or too low American opportunities for life after football, but it can with success and disappointment,” said also be beneficial in the present, not just for Okenabirhie. “Have a strong focus on what Scholarships your future. with useful guidance and information on a variety For entry in 2019 you want to achieve and make sure you A guide for players, parents and guardians “As well as obvious transferable skills like work hard to reach those targets. If you do Our website and social media channels are the Higher Education self-motivation and time management, it that, then your ability will shine through and keeps you sharp mentally and gives you the rest will take care of itself as there are something to focus on away from football. plenty of opportunities out there. of real life issues like dealing with agents, money, Applications It’s a way to relax your mind from those “Every player wants to play as high as pressures, but also provides stimulation as first port of call for the latest news. possible, but everyone’s journey is different. A guide for apprentices, parents and guardians you’re learning new information. For entry in 2019 I’ve definitely matured as a player and a “When I moved down to non-league, I person. Football is full of ups and downs, drugs and sex. had more time on my hands and wanted you get setbacks, but you have to show a lot to make use of that, so I decided to start of resilience. an Open University degree in Business & “As for my degree, if you’re someone who We tackle all areas from apprenticeship related Management. Doing the course part-time enjoys learning then why not continue that? doesn’t affect your training schedule, so I For me, the Open University route has made started that just after I left Stevenage and it very manageable and it doesn’t get in the I’ve been working on it ever since.” way of my football. You just have to organise issues to coverage of all the U18 League’s Alongside his studies, Okenabirhie has 1 your time, get that preparation right and TALENTTouchline TRANSFER February 2019 enjoyed a career renaissance on the pitch, then have the willpower to get on with it. spending just one season at Harrow before • RAINBOW LACES • “Studying part-time means it takes quite a FEJIRI OKENABIRHIE attracting the attention of Dagenham & DEBUTANTS • while to complete so you’ve got to stay incorporating fixtures, results, league tables PLUS Redbridge in the National League, where his impressive form led to an England C call-up. motivated, but I’m enjoying the course and I’m coming to the last two years now. I can He further established himself as one of the

Back in 2015, OkenabirhieFejiri was at a crossroads in his career see the finish line and I’m still enjoying it as and match reports. most exciting prospects in Non-League much as when I started.”

16 February 2019 Touchline Touchline February 2019 17

Digital & Social Media Face-to-face

Follow us online and via Twitter, LFE staff support apprentices throughout Instagram, Facebook and and beyond the two-year programme to help YouTube to stay ahead of the players realise their potential. latest developments.

10 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 11 Player & Club Testimonials

O FO TBA LL L A L C W L L U L I B

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Ryan Sessegnon Jake Hilton Scott Fitzgerald Mark Wilgose Fulham Crewe Alexandra (Now Loughborough University, Academy Manager, Millwall Head of Education & Welfare, Sheffield United BSc Mathematics) The 2018 EFL Awards were dominated by Ryan At Millwall we take great pride from the work We tell every player that comes on an as he claimed five trophies, including LFE’s Things are adding-up for former Crewe we do to develop young players at youth level. apprenticeship at Sheffield United that Education Championship Apprentice of the Year. goalkeeper Jake, who is following his passion is not part of a Plan B, it is part of Plan A in terms of It is extremely rewarding to see a number of for numbers at Loughborough University. helping them to become a better person, a better Having been a mainstay in Fulham’s team since youngsters graduate into the first-team. starting the apprenticeship, he has already made “I always enjoyed Maths, so I thought that would footballer and giving them a better understanding Ben Thompson, Fred Onyedinma, Aidan over 100 first-team appearances as a teenager. fit with coming to University and continuing my of the game they play. O’Brien and Sid Nelson have all progressed in education,” he said. It is a message that reverberates around our And yet, Ryan remained committed to his recent times. academic studies. He told LFE: “It’s been important “It’s hard work but I’m going to come out of it Academy and one that is fully endorsed by our As a club we are fully committed to both to me to pass my education because you never with a degree which takes me on in life, doing academy manager, Travis Binnion, who himself the football and educational aspects of the know what can happen. something I enjoy.” came through the academy system as a player Apprenticeship scheme because by striking the before beginning his coaching career. “I don’t really get a lot of free time but when I do right balance between the two we can ensure that I make sure I do the right things and just keep We want all of our young players to prosper and the needs of every individual apprentice are met. working on making myself better, whether that’s fulfil their potential. Kyle Walker, Dominic Calvert- football or education.” The apprenticeship is about producing players but Lewin, Harry Maguire and others have come also individuals who can be a success away from through the system here to make huge strides in the game. the game while others have gone on to soccer The nature of the programme helps to develop scholarships in America, studied for degrees in the transferable skills that are a great back-up UK or gone on to other jobs. for those that just fall short of making it as All of our players go out on work experience a professional footballer. to businesses in the local community that are partners of the club. We want to get them out into Jamie Hopcutt Alex Willis the big wide world just so they get a feel of what it York City Charlton Athletic is like to do a real job so they can appreciate what (Now at Ostersunds FK) (Now Northern Kentucky University) the working world is like for a lot of people and Former York City youth-team winger Jamie Despite being offered a professional contract by get a breadth of different experiences while they Hopcutt is making his mark in Sweden. Charlton, the lure of a soccer scholarship in the are here. Converted into a central striker, Hopcutt played USA took Alex to the other side of the Atlantic. a key role in helping his current club, Ostersunds “I would say you get the best of both worlds, in FK, reach the Swedish Premier League for the terms of preparing for the distant future with a first time in their history and featured during the degree, but also working every day to become club’s stunning 2017-18 Europa League run, even a better player and striving to be a professional starting at the Emirates Stadium in a 2-1 victory footballer,” he said. We want all of our young players to prosper and fulfil over Arsenal. “It’s a life-changing experience and one I would their potential. Kyle Walker, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Harry Hopcutt had been turning out for Tadcaster Albion highly recommend as it has helped me as a person Maguire and others have come through the system here before making the switch to Scandinavia via LFE’s and a player.” Erasmus+ player placement programme. to make huge strides in the game

12 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence Images courtesy of PA www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 13 Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE)

This section gives a brief outline of The ASE Framework the components that make up the ASE LFE is funded by the Education and Skills Funding framework and the process that is undertaken Agency (ESFA) and the European Social Fund to ensure that apprentices’ individual needs (ESF) to deliver the Apprenticeship in Sporting are identified and met over the course of Excellence (ASE). A conceptual diagram is the two-year programme. outlined below.

NVQ Diploma in Achieving Excellence in Sports Performance (Level 3) Football Technical Development

Functional Skills Certificate in (Level 2) Apprenticeship Coaching Football English & Mathematics in Sporting (Level 2) Excellence (ASE)

Technical Certificate(Level 3) BTEC Subsidiary/Diploma/Extended Diploma

14 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 15 Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE)

Initial Assessment Induction Apprentice Reviews The Football Development Programme Initial Assessments are carried out with every This will be carried out at the start of the Apprentice reviews are conducted with The football training programme will cover: apprentice to establish academic ability. apprenticeship. LFE provide each club with a LFE Regional Officers and are recorded on an • Pre-Season Training - This period of time is used Where possible LFE Regional Officers will set of standard induction units that includes the e-learning platform. The review process clearly to ensure that the apprentice will be able meet undertake initial assessments in partnership following topics: establishes the level of progress made, and agreed the fitness requirements for professional with the following people: actions for each apprentice. Regional Officers are • ASE Educational Framework football. responsible for coordinating this process. • The apprentice’s parents/guardians • Employment Rights and Responsibilities • Football Training - This will include work on • The Education & Welfare Officer/Academy technical and tactical skills, physical conditioning • Club Rules and Regulations ASE Manager and psychology Reviews will be conducted in the following areas: • Health & Safety • A tutor from the dedicated educational • Football Coaching 1. NVQ Diploma in Achieving Excellence in Sports establishment • Equality of Opportunity Performance (completed by the Tutor Assessor) • Assessments of Progress - Apprentices will The assessment will normally be carried out • Drugs Awareness be evaluated on technical ability, teamwork, 2. Technical Certificate (completed by the anytime between March and July and will character and physical condition • Apprentice Wellbeing education/college tutor) enable the apprentice to be placed on the most • Safeguarding • Theory of Football Tactics appropriate educational programme based 3. Functional Skills English and Maths (completed by Functional Skills tutor if appropriate) upon expected GCSE results. All apprentices will Pre-Season Training Education undertake an online bksb assessment as part of 4. Overall individual review (conducted by the This period of time is used to ensure that The educational programme has been the Initial Assessment process. LFE Regional Officer) apprentices meet the fitness requirements for specifically designed for elite athletes and is geared towards nationally recognised Final Assessment professional football and clubs will carry this Review Cycle out according to individual club practice. qualifications. The educational programme A second assessment (to include the appropriate Reviews will be conducted at a maximum of will consist of the following elements: personnel) will take place in late August/early 12 weekly intervals. It is essential that apprentices • NVQ Diploma in Achieving Excellence September when the apprentices have had their are available for reviews. GCSE results confirmed. in Sports Performance (Level 3) The only acceptable absences from reviews are • Technical Certificate (Level 3) Should the GCSE results achieved confirm as follows: the grades given at the Initial Assessment, • Functional Skills (Level 2) • Apprentices selected for the first team or the apprentice will be able to commence the international duty • Certificate in Coaching (Level 2) academic programme agreed previously. • Apprentices involved in FA Youth Cup matches However, if the apprentice has either exceeded or not achieved the grades given at the Initial • Apprentices who produce a sick note from the Assessment, further discussions will take place doctor or club physiotherapist to ensure an appropriate academic programme is designed to meet the apprentice’s needs.

Individual apprentice reviews are conducted to ensure that all apprentices can fulfil their true potential

16 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 17 Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE)

Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Achieving Excellence Aims and Objectives This qualification offers the apprentice, as an elite or potentially elite in Sports Performance This qualification offers the apprentice, as an athlete, to get certificated recognition of the skills, knowledge and The apprentice will need to complete the elite or potentially elite athlete, to get certificated understanding that they are developing in their quest for excellence following mandatory units to successfully gain recognition of the skills, knowledge and the NVQ: understanding that they are developing in their quest for excellence. • Plan, apply and evaluate own tactical skills to achieve excellence in a sport The overall objectives of the NVQ are to enable the apprentice to demonstrate his • Plan, apply and evaluate own technical skills to practical sporting ability and explore the issues achieve excellence in a sport surrounding professionalism, working as a • Plan, apply and evaluate own physical capability team, managing self, health & safety, careers to achieve excellence in sport and employment. • Plan, apply and evaluate own nutritional programme to achieve excellence in sport NVQ Assessment Assessment is based on what the apprentice • Plan, apply and evaluate own mental skills and can do and involves the apprentice (the attitudes to achieve excellence in sport candidate), an assessor, an internal verifier • Plan and manage own lifestyle to achieve and an external verifier. excellence in sport The apprentice will be asked to prove that they • Manage own career in sport are competent by providing evidence, which Personal Learning and Thinking Skills Employment Rights & Responsibilities (ERR) • Communicate and work effectively with other shows that they: Comprise of six groups of skills that, alongside Are incorporated in to the NVQ Diploma (Level 3) people to achieve excellence in sport • Can perform all the specified tasks consistently English and Mathematics, are essential to and club induction. • Maintain the health and safety of self and others to the required standard learning, life and work, they are: at training and competition venues • Understand why they are doing things Technical Certificate • Independent enquiry (knowledge and understanding) A technical certificate is part of the apprenticeship • Reflective learning • Can apply the required skills in different ways framework. This should be discussed with the (scope) • Team work apprentice at Initial and Final Assessments with the LFE Regional Officer and will be subject to Assessment is flexible and the apprentice can • Creative thinking anticipated/confirmed GCSE results. be awarded a certificate for each unit that they • Self management Did you know... successfully achieve, even if they do not complete The current technical certificate pathways are • Effective participation Assessment is flexible the full NVQ. as follows: and the apprentice can There is no set period of time in which the These skills will be mapped in to the NVQ • BTEC Subsidiary/Diploma/Extended Diploma be awarded a certificate apprentice needs to complete a unit or NVQ. Diploma and BTEC qualifications. for each unit they However, the apprentice and the assessor should successfully achieve. still set target dates for completing each unit. Be realistic though, as there are many factors such as the apprentice’s previous experience, demands within the workplace and an availability of resources that will affect how quickly the apprentice is able to achieve the qualification.

18 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 19 Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE)

BTEC’s BTEC Level 3: BTEC Level 3: BTEC Level 3: Subsidiary Diploma in Sport Diploma in Sport Extended Diploma in Sport The BTEC Subsidiary Diploma has 7 units, the

Diploma in Sport has 13 units and the BTEC Mandatory Units (3) Mandatory Units (9) Mandatory Units (9) Extended Diploma has 19 units. There are a set Principles of Anatomy and Principles of Anatomy and Principles of Anatomy and number of core units but most subjects have a Physiology in Sport Physiology in Sport Physiology in Sport choice of what option units to take. See the tables The Physiology of Fitness The Physiology of Fitness The Physiology of Fitness on the opposite page for more information. Assessing Risk in Sport Assessing Risk in Sport Assessing Risk in Sport Course Length and Duration Mandatory Specialist Units (1) Fitness Training and Programming Fitness Training and Programming Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise The BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Sport Principles and Practices in Outdoor Sports Nutrition Sports Nutrition qualification could be completed over one year, Adventure while the Diploma and Extended Diploma should Psychology for Sports Performance Psychology for Sports Performance Optional Units (3) be completed over two years. Technical and Tactical Skills in Sport Technical and Tactical Skills in Sport Fitness Training and Programming The Athlete’s Lifestyle The Athlete’s Lifestyle Sports Coaching BTEC Assessment Optional Units (4) Optional Units (10) The Value of the BTEC Qualification Sports Development All units will be internally assessed through Sports Coaching Sports Coaching Fitness Testing for Sport assignments set and marked by tutors. Upon The BTEC qualification should provide the Practical Team Sports Practical Team Sports and Exercise completion of each internally assessed unit the apprentice with underpinning knowledge Current Issues in Sport Current Issues in Sport tutor will inform the apprentice of what grade they towards the work completed on the Level 3 Practical Team Sports Instructing Physical Activity Exercise, Health and Lifestyle Practical Individual Sports have achieved (either Pass, Merit or Distinction). NVQ Diploma Achieving Excellence in Sports and Exercise Instructing Physical Activity Performance and give a further insight into Outdoor and Adventurous Activities To ensure that the internally assessed work has Sports Injuries and Exercise the requirements of being an elite athlete Sports Nutrition been marked accurately, Edexcel will conduct Analysis of Sports Performance Sports Injuries within the football industry. Current Issues in Sport sample checks of tutors’ marking. This process Sport and Exercise Massage Analysis of Sports Performance Leadership in Sport usually takes place between January and April The BTEC also affords the opportunity to Rules, Regulations and Officiating Talent Identification and and the grades for internally assessed units could complete a nationally recognised qualification Exercise, Health and Lifestyle in Sport Development in Sport change as a result. Edexcel will confirm final that should assist the apprentice with higher Instructing Physical Activity Work Experience in Sport Sport and Exercise Massage and Exercise grades when this re-marking has been undertaken. education and employment applications. Sports Facilities and Operational Rules, Regulations and Officiating For further information about using your Psychology for Sports Performance Management in Sport When all the units of the course have been BTEC towards entrance into higher education Physical Education and the Care Profiling Sports Performance Organising Sports Events completed, the apprentice will receive an please see of Children and Young People overall grade for the qualification (again Pass, www.ucas.co.uk Physical Education and the Care of Work Experience in Sport Children and Young People Merit or Distinction). This is the grade that will A UCAS Tariff Table and information on the Technical and Tactical Skills in Sport Sport as a Business be shown on the certificate and the one that tariff system can be found in LFE’s Guide to should be used when applying for higher Higher Education Applications, available on The Athlete’s Lifestyle Work Experience in Sport education or employment. our website. As a guide, however, the BTEC Sports Facilities and Operational Management Extended Diploma in Sport is the equivalent of three A Levels, the Diploma in Sport is the Profiling Sports Performance equivalent to two A Levels and the Subsidiary Research Investigation in Sport and Exercise Sciences Diploma is equivalent to one A Level. Did you know... Laboratory and Experimental e*, when making As a rough guid Methods in Sport and Exercise a university application... Sciences The BTEC affords the opportunity to complete a nationally recognised Extended Diploma = 3 x A Levels qualification that should assist the apprentice with higher education and Diploma = 2 x A Levels x A Level employment applications Subsidiary Diploma = 1 ee LFE’s *For the full UCAS Tariff Table, s ’ ‘Guide to Higher Educations Applications

20 Welcome to thethe ApprenticeshipApprenticeship in in Sporting Sporting Excellence Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 21 Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE)

Level 2 Functional Skills Course Length and Duration Aims & Objectives of the Coaching Certificate The Value of your Coaching Qualification Functional Skills are skills that are commonly The course will comprise of: The coaching qualification underpins the work As well underpinning the work that the apprentice needed for success in a range of activities in that each apprentice completes on the Level 3 will complete on the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in • Theory and practical training education, training, work and life in general. NVQ Diploma in Achieving Excellence in Sports Achieving Excellence in Sports Performance, • Child Protection Performance and allows apprentices to: the coaching qualification provides a formal Functional Skills aim to deal with: and recognised qualification. • First Aid • Develop an appreciation of the ethical • Mathematics • Coaching Hours coaching process The course, which is a stepping stone to the UEFA • English B Licence, should also allow the apprentice to • Formative Assessment • Plan, conduct and evaluate a series of football understand the role of the coach, improve upon Apprentices will be exempt from these coaching sessions qualifications if they have achieved GCSE grades their personal skills such as communication and • Coach the basic skills and techniques of football 9-4 in Maths or English Language/Literature. give them greater responsibility. Did you know... to others It also affords apprentices the opportunity to Level 2 Certificate in Coaching Football As part of their programme, each • Ensure the health and safety of players and coach in the following areas: As part of the programme, each apprentice apprentice will also undertake others within the coaching environment the • American Soccer Camps will also undertake the 1st4Sport Level 2 1st4Sport Level 2 Certificate • Develop greater responsibility for your own in Coaching Football. • Academies* & Development Centres Certificate in Coaching Football. This includes learning and development units on: • Football in the Community • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles • Coaching principles and ethics of attack and defence through the use of • Soccer schools practices and small-sided games • Planning coaching sessions • Local schools • Conducting coaching sessions FA Introduction to First Aid in Football

This will also be delivered at the same time as * Dependent on the role, a UEFA B Licence may be required the 1st4Sport Level 2 Certificate in Coaching Football. The apprentice will receive tuition from a qualified emergency aid instructor and learn to deal with emergency situations such as choking, heart attacks, major bleeding and the resuscitation of unconscious casualties. On completion this certificate is valid for a period of three years.

22 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 23 Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE) Change of Circumstances

Wages Lodgings and Accommodation This section outlines the various ways in which Termination for Disciplinary Reasons At the time of writing, the current national Where it is unreasonable for an apprentice an apprentice’s circumstances might change Page 29 outlines the standard disciplinary minimum wage rates for apprentices is as follows: to travel to the club from home, lodgings should during the course of the programme. procedures that should be imposed on apprentices be provided by the club. However clubs will who breach either club regulations or the code • £3.90 per hour from April 2019 - the rate for Termination by Mutual Consent be entitled to charge apprentices up to £7.55 of discipline concerning college attendance. apprentices aged 16-18 and those aged 19 or per day from April 2019 for this service.. In order for an apprentice’s contract to be over who are in their first year as an apprentice Clubs must ensure that the procedures on page terminated by mutual consent, both the In line with English Football League (EFL) Rules on 29 are followed and that LFE is involved in each • £6.15 per hour for an apprentice aged 19 in the apprentice and the club must confirm their Youth Development and current legislation clubs stage of the disciplinary process. second year of their apprenticeship. agreement with the terms of the termination. shall, in all dealings with apprentices, do what It is strongly advised that apprentices who Most clubs will operate their apprenticeship is reasonable for the purpose of safeguarding may be considering terminating by mutual programmes on a 30 hour per week basis. apprentices’ welfare. consent should discuss this matter with their Clubs are expected to ensure that lodgings are LFE Regional Officer or The PFA who are aware in keeping with those required by a professional of all the implications. sportsman and should utilise guidance approved by the EFL. Signing Professional Forms Under the terms and conditions of the If a club signs an apprentice on a professional Scholarship/Apprenticeship Agreement section contract on his 17th birthday, or before the end of 5.3.1 The scholar shall not: “reside at any place his apprenticeship, English Football League rules which the club reasonably deems unsuitable state that he must continue with his education for the performance of his obligations under course until it is completed. the agreement.“ If the apprentice was living a considerable distance away from the club then section 5.3.1 could apply. Travelling long distances to and from training and matches could cause a number of problems such as fatigue which affected playing performance and learning, punctuality and attendance issues, and it may have a cost implication. Please note: Wage and accommodation rates are reviewed each year by Government. Changes to these rates are applied annually.

In line with English Football League (EFL) Rules on Youth Development and current legislation clubs shall, in all dealings with apprentices, do what is reasonable for the purpose of safeguarding apprentices’ welfare.

24 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 25 Change of Circumstances Discipline

Injury Apprenticeship Work Experience Between Clubs Apprentices are subject to club discipline 2. Impose a fine not exceeding the amount of 50% of his monthly basic wage. There are two instances in which the Work experience allows an apprentice to and this should be made clear at induction, circumstances of an apprentice might change spend a reasonable time training and playing with all club rules and regulations explained 3. Order the apprentice not to attend at any due to injury: at another club. fully to apprentices. of the club’s premises for such a period as Apprentices should also be made aware of the the club thinks fit not exceeding two weeks. 1. Recoverable Injury Implications disciplinary code of practice for college attendance. Apprentices who are suspended from the 4. Where the circumstances set out in Clause programme due to injury would still be If an apprentice is at another club on work 10.1 of the Apprenticeship Agreement Schedule Two of the Scholarship/ expected to fulfil the educational element experience this does not prevent him from going apply, terminate this agreement. Apprenticeship Agreement of the apprenticeship whilst undergoing back to his original club as often as he likes. Clause 10 of the Apprenticeship Agreement rehabilitation or treatment. Indeed, the apprentice can travel backwards Should any apprentice fall foul of these and forwards on the strength of just one letter regulations, then the disciplinary procedure Termination 2. Permanent Incapacity of permission. No recalls are necessary. outlined in Schedule Two of the Apprenticeship Apprentices who suffer an injury which Agreement will apply. In summary, this Clause 10.1 of the Apprenticeship Agreement results in permanent incapacity shall, upon The apprentice remains the original club’s player procedure involves the following three steps: states that the club shall be entitled to terminate who will hold his registration and be responsible receiving the correct notice (minimum 3 the agreement by fourteen days’ notice in writing for all travel, lodging and apprentice wage 1. Investigation months) as laid down in clause 8 of the to the apprentice if, after due investigation payments. Should the apprentice be incurring Apprentice’s Agreement, be released from 2. Disciplinary Hearing and enquiry, it is reasonably satisfied that he: the apprenticeship programme. lodging or high travel costs, it will be the responsibility of the original club to come to an 3. Appeals 1. Shall be guilty of Gross Misconduct; Long Term Injuries agreement with the work experience club. 2. Has failed to heed any final written Penalties and Termination The club physiotherapist/doctor should make English Football League clubs cannot play warning given under the provisions If, having followed the above procedure, an a diagnosis to ascertain whether the apprentice apprentices that are on work experience from of Schedule Two (see above); or allegation is proved to the club’s satisfaction, the has sustained an injury which could prevent him another club in any match at first team level. 3. Is convicted of any criminal offence where the club may apply the penalties outlined in Schedule from training/playing for a substantial period punishment consists of an immediate custodial Two, Section 4 of the Apprenticeship Agreement: of time. This period of absence from playing/ Arranging a Permanent Move sentence of or exceeding three months. training may prevent the club’s coaching staff Permanent transfer of apprenticeships between 1. Issue a formal warning which should be issued from carrying out a thorough assessment of the clubs are allowed and in order to do this all as follows: Notice of Termination (i) Verbal Warning apprentice’s playing ability. In the long term this applications with the original club should be Under Clause 10.2 of the Scholarship/ (ii) First Written Warning may affect the apprentice’s chances of being cancelled and new forms signed at his new club. Apprenticeship Agreement, clubs are required (iii) Final Written Warning offered a professional contract. to include in any notice of termination full Should this be the situation, the club may wish particulars of the club’s reasons for terminating to suspend the apprentice’s programme under the agreement with copies sent to the English Clause 4 of the Apprenticeship Agreement. Football League (EFL), The Football Association The clause states that if an apprentice is and The PFA. A copy should also be sent to LFE. prevented from participating in the training Appeals programme for a period in excess of five weeks, the duration of the Apprenticeship Clause 10.3 of the Apprenticeship Agreement Agreement shall be extended by the length of states that within seven days of receiving the excess period or, if earlier, the apprentice’s a termination notice the apprentice may nineteenth birthday. appeal against the decision of the club to the EFL. All parties should then seek to ensure that the appeal is heard within a further 28 days. Apprentices who are suspended from the programme due to injury would still be expected to fulfil the educational element of the Apprenticeship whilst undergoing rehabilitation or treatment

26 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 27 Discipline Safeguarding

College/Education Provider attendance Exams/Assessments LFE aim to ensure that every apprentice is trained in an enjoyable and safe environment and As a condition of our funding from the ESFA, A proportion of our funding from the ESFA is is protected from abuse. Apprentices should be able to participate in an enjoyable and safe it is obligatory for all apprentices to attend dependant upon apprentices actually achieving environment protected from physical, sexual or emotional harm and from neglect or bullying. their college/education provider sessions each the qualifications that they enter. It is therefore LFE subscribe to The Football Association’s Allegations, concerns or disclosures of a child week (i.e. usually one and a half days on their essential that apprentices are available to ‘Working Together to Safeguard Football’ protection nature received from apprentices education programme). attend any exams/assessments in relation document. The key principles of The FA Child will be referred to the EFL Safeguarding Manager, to their educational/vocational courses. It is The education days are decided in consultation Protection Policy are that: The FA Case Management Team and/or the responsibility of the club to ensure that with the club and, once agreed, it is the appropriate statutory agency. LFE’s designated apprentices attend any such exams/assessments. • The child’s welfare is and must always be the responsibility of the club to ensure that paramount consideration safeguarding officer(s) will have a role to play in apprentices attend the college/education investigating complaints of poor practice. Code of discipline concerning college/education provider on these days. • All children and young people have a right to provider attendance be protected from abuse regardless of their Further sources of information on safeguarding: Apprentices, if injured, must not miss their The following regulations are in place regarding age, gender, disability, culture, language, racial LFE Safeguarding academic work to receive routine treatment college attendance: origin, religious beliefs or sexual orientation at the club. If the club requires the apprentice GOV.UK Safeguarding 1. LFE reserve the right to remove an apprentice • All suspicions and allegations of abuse will to receive treatment, the apprentice must The FA Safeguarding be called in after college/education provider from the education programme if they miss be taken seriously and responded to swiftly PFA Safety Net work has finished. college or their education work on more than and appropriately three occasions in one academic year without • Working in partnership with other The only acceptable absences from College a good reason (i.e. selection for the first team are as follows: organisations, children and young people or a sick note). and their parents or carers is essential • FA Youth Cup commitments 2. Apprentices misbehaving at college will be • Apprentices selected for the first team or subject to the disciplinary procedures outlined international duty on page 27. • Apprentices who produce a sick note from 3. Apprentices who do not hand in written the doctor or club physiotherapist work set by the college will be subject to the disciplinary procedures outlined on page 27.

It is the responsibility of the club to ensure that apprentices attend any exams/assessments in relation to their educational courses

28 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 29 Equality & Diversity Health & Safety Reporting of accidents/ injuries and Industrial Diseases Procedure

LFE has a wide range of strategies to support the learner Process to be followed: PFA Accident and Insurance Fund and the club during the ASE programme to ensure that every • If the injury is going to be long term, the Once you have obtained membership of the apprentice should make an application to PFA you should be aware that the PFA makes apprentice receives Equality of Opportunity. Job Centre Plus for employment and support a contribution to the English Football League and allowance and/or income support as soon as Premier League on condition that all clubs Our Position & Commitment Club Responsibility possible after the injury occurring provide private medical insurance cover for both full professionals and apprentices. LFE is fully committed to a policy of Equality There is a significant amount of legislation to • The amount of benefit received by the apprentice of Opportunity. We aim to ensure that staff at address discrimination, which clubs should be is dependant upon individual circumstances In addition all current and former members have access to the PFA’s Accident and Insurance all levels work in an environment free from any aware of, designed to ensure that each individual • During the period of incapacity, the apprentice Fund whereby grants may be made to help discrimination on the grounds of age, disability, is treated equally and fairly. will need to provide sick notes to confirm his gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, cover medical expenses. The PFA also provides All clubs should have policies and procedures in continued eligibility to claim benefits sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership Accident & Sickness Insurance of up to £25,000 respect of Equality and Diversity. LFE reserve the Further guidance on this issue can be found and pregnancy and maternity. for current members whose careers are cut short right to ask clubs for their equality documentation at www.gov.uk by searching for employment due to a specific accident or illness. At the same time we also work hard to ensure at any time. and support allowance. that every apprentice is treated fairly and is LFE expect all clubs to attend The EFL encouraged to develop to his full potential Safeguarding seminars and courses to support in all aspects of his training. LFE will seek to the equality agenda. ensure that apprentices do not suffer any form of discrimination and that they are supported It is the responsibility of everyone involved in ASE to understand their rights and responsibilities including club staff and apprentices to ensure that during the two-year programme. our policies are implemented and supported. We ask that all clubs develop an environment where LFE will discuss equality awareness with equality, fairness, security and respect are an apprentices during progress reviews to monitor integral part of the ASE programme. their understanding and experience during training. Clubs and apprentices will be able to Useful Websites: access a wide range of support provided by LFE, • www.acas.org.uk starting with induction, right through to extensive • www.equalityhumanrights.com exit and progression activities. • www.kickitout.org During the year LFE will provide clubs, apprentices and Education Providers with the • www.ofsted.gov.uk opportunity to comment on how we manage the • www.thefa.com ASE programme and to suggest any changes that might be beneficial. LFE will continue to work in partnership with The EFL and Premier League on anti-discrimination and inclusiveness awareness. In addition, LFE continues to work with Kick It Out to deliver diversity training at football clubs. This work will continue in the 2018-19 season.

30 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 31 Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare (PDBW), Life Skills and Progression

League Football Education wants more for apprentices than successful achievement of the WHY? HOW? WHAT? ASE qualification, we support the development of well-rounded people. Those who embrace personal development as well as alternative interests, employment, Self Awareness education or training, equip themselves to excel Self-reflection, viewing yourself as more than a footballer, as footballers and for life off-the-field. having other interests, valuing yourself in other settings (family, friendships outside football), setting goals for Personal Development, Behaviours and Welfare character development, personal presentation LFE’s PDBW Model provides a framework for planning and delivering this wider development. Confidence Positivity, can-do attitude, trust in yourself in all POR situations, willingness to get out of your comfort zone, SUP TS courage, leadership, self-esteem ORMA RF NC E E Social Competence P Communication skills, social skills, interpersonal skills, OU relationship development, tolerance, Y empathy, compassion

W Resilience

Determination, competitiveness, N E strive to be your best, work ethic, discipline,

I M self-regulation, persistence O L S

P E I L R C T - O N I B V A Accountability E H Taking responsibility, trustworthiness, reliability, S N S E E N decisiveness, strong time management IN A G TR Motivation Ambition, strong purpose, desire to learn, desire to understand, enthusiasm

Respect Consideration of others, good manners,

unselfishness, integrity DECIDE... YOU

32 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 33 Life Skills Progression

League Football Education wants more for My Future Today The PFA U-Explore apprentices than successful achievement of the Delivered to each club once every 2 years by LFE, For more information please contact: LFE recognise that there are a number of pathways ASE qualification, we support clubs to develop Dame Kelly Holmes Trust and AFTA Thought, apprentices want to take post-apprenticeship and • Pat Lally (Director of Education) well-rounded people. My Future Today raises awareness of personal we want to ensure that all possible information LFE believes those who embrace personal development and its benefits to performance, • Oshor Williams (Assistant Director of Education) is made available. In order to do this LFE has development as well as alternative interests, well-being and transition. • Paul Raven (PFA/ULF Project manager) invested in the online tool U-Explore. This employment, education or training, equip houses up to date information as well as video Through acting performances and workshops • Jason Lee (Equalities Education Executive) themselves to excel as footballers and for life off-the- testimonials on all major employment sectors with facilitated by athlete mentors, this innovative field. Progression is a strategy aimed at providing the • Jayne Bailey (Education Secretary) over 1500 job roles and requirements explained. workshop encourages the development of life skills, information, advice, guidance, support and alternative interests and undertaking of personal • Shane Birtles (Administrator) Go to www.u-explore.com to get a taste of what is opportunities for personal growth, contributing to development. It helps apprentices to understand on offer at this excellent resource. long term success both on and off the pitch. their broader identity, personality traits and Address: Please contact your Regional Officer for details transferable skills whilst providing an opportunity Life Skills PFA Education required to register an account and begin using to explore alternative/complimentary careers and 11 Oxford Court this resource. Life Skills sessions, aim to raise awareness and to set their own personal development goals. Bishopsgate empower apprentices with the knowledge and Moving on from the ASE programme is a key Manchester Tracking and Monitoring/Alumni Liaison Officer skills required to deal with the demands of football transition challenge, whether this be into the M2 3WQ and life. These include: Collecting detailed apprentice destination first team or into other sporting/non-sporting Tel: 0161 236 0637 data and identifying support needs at the end Social Media Cathy Wood environments, so along with the personal of the apprenticeship programme has helped E-mail: [email protected] Cecil Jee Thomas Talent Transfer development and life skills activity, LFE and LFE construct a range of partnerships and Charlie Fogarty Anything Is Possible its partners can provide information, advice, opportunities that benefit current and former guidance and practical support. Moving on from Colin Avery Sexual Health Awareness apprentices. This work is conducted and managed the ASE programme is a key transition challenge, by LFE’s Alumni Liaison Officer and continues for 3 Heart4More Foundation Cardiac Health Awareness whether this be into the first team or into other years after apprentices leave the ASE programme. Emotional Well-Being If U Care Share sporting/non-sporting environments, so along with Kick It Out Equality and Diversity the personal development and life skills activity, Football Opportunities Personal Development LFE’s My Future Today LFE and its partners provide information, advice, Traditionally, LFE (in conjunction with the EFL and Sporting Chance Clinic Lifestyle and Education guidance and practical support. The PFA) has run Assessment Trials for players Trained Brain Sports Performance released at the end of their Apprenticeship and is committed to supporting players towards football opportunities post-apprenticeship.

Did you know... PFA Education provides guidance and funding for educational and vocational courses that support personal development and transition towards a second career.

34 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE) www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 35 Progression

Higher Education/PASS4Soccer Erasmus+ Placement Programme Opportunities Board Many apprentices are interested in entering LFE has utilised the Erasmus+ fund to enhance Leading employers, educators and training higher education once they complete the ASE the Apprentice Journey and Progression providers recognise the talent and abilities that programme. This has to be carefully planned opportunities for footballers. This funding has apprentices can offer their organisation. LFE for, due to the deadlines in the application supported club pre-season trips to mainland has a large network of partners that we can put process defined by the Universities and Colleges Europe, as well as providing released players apprentices in touch with for further information Admissions Service (UCAS). To help you in this with personal development and footballing and advice. process LFE has produced the ‘Guide to Higher opportunities via a 12 week placement LFE also utilise this network to provide specific Education Applications’ which can be downloaded programme with partner European clubs. Over job, training or education opportunities. As well via our website. 200 players have gone on placement and over as being directly communicated via e-mail these 80 players have earned professional contracts in LFE has also established a partnership with opportunities are posted on LFE’s Opportunities Sweden and Spain as a result. PASS4Soccer, a consultancy that specialise in Board: securing scholarships to USA Universities. For This season, 14 clubs will take their apprentices to www.lfe.org.uk/progression/recruitment more information please see the HE & USA the Netherlands and Spain on a pre-season trip via Scholarships Guide here: this initiative, while around 30 young players will take part in the player placement programme. www.lfe.org.uk/downloads/ apprentice-downloads

Did you know... Signing with a football agent may lead to a player becoming INELIGIBLE to represent a USA University soccer team.

36 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE) www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 37 Celebrating Success

LFE celebrates the academic, football and wider LFE Apprentice of the Year achievements of apprentices throughout the Sponsored by LFE, an Apprentice of the Year two-year programme and beyond. Award is allocated to an apprentice player in each The 11, which is aligned to apprentice reviews, division at the annual English Football League celebrates the holistic development of young Awards dinner. players, with 44 apprentices being recognised This award celebrates the on and off the pitch each year for their outstanding efforts on and achievements of apprentice players and is off the pitch. Many winners then go on to be decided by a panel of expert judges. shortlisted in their respective divisions at the EFL Awards for the LFE Apprentice of the Year. Previous winners include Lewis Cook (Leeds United now AFC Bournemouth), Ademola Another award which celebrates the success Lookman (Charlton Athletic now Everton), Nick and wider contributions of apprentices on the Powell (Crewe Alexandra now Wigan Athletic), European Trips is the Mike Johnson Award. Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham) and Connor Wickham (Ipswich Town now Crystal Palace). The 11 The 11 is judged on academic and football Goal of the Month progress, as well as other off the pitch factors, LFE’s Goal of the Month competition highlights e.g. engaging in the football club’s community the very best goals scored by apprentice players initiatives. This competition runs four times each up and down the land. With each month’s winner season, with the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin decided by a public vote, it regularly attracts (Sheffield United now Everton), Oli McBurnie thousands of online viewers. Check it out at (Bradford City now Swansea City), Jamie www.lfe.org.uk/goal-of-the-month Shackleton (Leeds United) and Ben Wilmot (Stevenage now Watford) all previously appearing in this select group.

38 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 39 Additional Information FAQs

What about A Levels? The function of an agent is to: If an apprentice wishes to undertake A Level • Represent the client’s best interests qualifications as the technical certificate he • Assist in negotiations with clubs will need to have achieved either A or A* in the relevant subjects and hold a solid profile • Provide professional support and assistance in other subjects. with career and career development A Levels can be difficult to timetable into the • Arrange commercial deals football training programme and not all A Levels • Look after press/media issues if appropriate provide underpinning knowledge towards Apprentices are not obliged to sign with an agent the NVQ. LFE Regional Officers can offer more and could represent themselves, consult with guidance on this subject. a solicitor or work with a close family member What about claims for Child Benefit? (unpaid) when dealing with any of the issues above. LFE has been informed by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) that following a review, In addition, as a member of the PFA, apprentices parents/guardians of apprentices on the ASE will be entitled to free advice from the PFA who programme in Football are not entitled to receive are able to provide hands-on representation in Child Benefit. contract negotiations, give access to financial advice and offer a number of other free services This is because HMRC deem the Scholarship that could be of benefit. Agreement to be a Contract of Employment and therefore consider apprentices to be in How do LFE ensure the quality of the employment (as opposed to the ‘non-employed’ ASE programme? status they were previously considered as), this LFE’s quality manager oversees rigorous policies makes apprentices ineligible for Child Benefit. and procedures on all aspects of the programme. When will apprentices be told if they are being An annual Self-Assessment Report which includes offered a pro contract? feedback from all stakeholders, is produced On or before the third Saturday in May in the final against criteria of the Common Inspection year of his Scholarship/Apprenticeship Agreement Framework (Ofsted in England). the club will be required to give written notice to LFE’s extensive observation strategy includes the scholar indicating whether or not upon expiry qualified Ofsted inspectors observing external of his agreement it intends offering the scholar a staff such as NVQ assessors, education provider professional contract and if so setting out the terms tutors, Functional Skills tutors and club staff. thereof. Apprentices should not expect to be told LFE Regional Officers are also regularly observed before April in year two of the programme, if they performing key duties. will be made the offer of a professional contract. LFE continuously strives to improve the An agent has been in touch, is it a good idea for programme by listening to and acting upon us to sign with him? feedback from apprentices, club staff and LFE advise holding discussions with The PFA education provider personnel. before deciding on whether to sign with an agent. The PFA will be able to offer advice on the benefits or downsides of signing with an agent and the costs involved.

40 Welcome to the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence www.lfe.org.uk @LFEonline /LFEonline /lfeonline 41 Contacts LFE Online

League Football Education English Football League The Professional The Football Association EFL House EFL House Footballers’ Association Wembley Stadium Find out about Progression 10-12 West Cliff 10-12 West Cliff 11 Oxford Court Wembley Preston PR1 8HU Preston PR1 8HU Bishopsgate London HA9 0WS Manchester M2 3WQ T. 01772 326870 T. 01772 325800 T. 0844 980 8200 Read back issues of Touchline E. [email protected] F. 01772 325801 T. 0161 236 0575 Watch LFE TV

LFE Senior Management Team

Sarah Stephen Keith Leighton Paul Bartlett Chief Executive Chief Education Officer Regional Officer & 01772 326870 07734 844312 Designated Safeguarding 07545 556887 [email protected] Officer [email protected] 07813 088469 [email protected]

LFE Central Office Staff LFE Regional Staff

Clive Cheetham Greg Fearon Craig Skinner Roger Gibbins Quality Manager Data Manager North West South West & Wales Read all the latest news 01772 326872 01772 326873 07802 684412 07808 787901 updates from LFE [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Dan Jolley Brian Kay Claire Wilberforce-Marsh Gavin Willacy Project Manager Futsal Manager North West & Midlands South & London 01772 326874 01772 326872 07709 485831 07796 442041 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Angela Bromley Jenny Lees Keith Leighton Tom Palmer Finance & Office Manager MIS Administrator Midlands South 01772 326870 01772 326873 07734 844312 07834 965810 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Elaine Brand Jenny Hornby PCT Officer Executive PA Ian King Carl Craner 01772 326874 01772 326873 Midlands East [email protected] [email protected] 07773 050215 07791 560287 [email protected] [email protected] Sarah Kayley Anthony Cato RO & PCT Officer Alumni Liaison Officer Pat Lally Sarah Kayley 01772 326874 01772 326875 North RO & PCT Officer [email protected] [email protected] 07802 684421 07753 343394 [email protected] [email protected] Simon Williams Jack Wylie Communications Officer Check the Academy results Life Skills Manager Paul Urwin Mairi Glynn 01772 326874 01772 326874 North East NVQ Manager/ [email protected] [email protected] 07595 992886 Lead Internal Verifier Lorraine Nour [email protected] 07766 551 848 Kelly Butterworth Quality Improvement [email protected] PCT Administrator Assistant Paul Bartlett Visit www.lfe.org.uk 01772 326870 01772 326872 North & North East Emma Mitchell [email protected] [email protected] 07813 088469 Functional Skills, [email protected] English & Maths Manager 07917 865458 [email protected]

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T 01772 326870 [email protected] www.lfe.org.uk