lfe.org.uk

Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme Contents Welcome to the Apprenticeship programme

3 Welcome 30 Equality and Diversity The Apprenticeship programme offers each 4 Foreword 31 Health & Safety apprentice the chance to fulfil his dream of becoming a professional footballer, while at the same time 6 About Us 32 Personal Development, Life Skills and Transition providing him with the opportunity to develop 8 Our Partners academic skills in an environment suitable for his 38 Celebrating Success 10 Keeping you informed all-round personal development. 40 Additional Information 12 Player and Club Testimonials We realise that for many young men the apprenticeship is both an exciting 42 Contacts 15 Apprenticeship Programme but daunting proposition, so the purpose of this booklet is to try to 43 LFE Online provide you with the information that will help you better understand the 25 Change of Circumstances apprentice journey. 27 Discipline League Football Education will work hard to provide a supportive environment to allow apprentices to thrive, while positive input from 29 Safeguarding parents/guardians is also vitally important. The transition from full-time education to the rigours and demands of training and playing every day is a challenging but rewarding experience. Over the next two years as an apprentice, the focus will undoubtedly be on progressing through the youth and development sides to the first-team. However, the education programme is also a key factor in developing a broader identity that can contribute to success on and off the pitch. As a result, it is crucial to remain committed and set goals and targets which will provide a platform to achieve the qualifications. I would encourage all apprentices to make the most of this exciting and privileged opportunity, ensuring they enjoy the all-round experience and realise that it is essential to maintain focus on their football alongside education. We hope this booklet gives you a good introduction to LFE and answers many of your questions. However, a list of LFE contacts is available for you to approach and receive further guidance.

Sarah Stephen Chief Executive

2 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 3 A word from Joe Thompson

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

4 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 5 About Us

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 We have a network of staff working across the Funding Agency, the European Social Fund and country dealing with club and college staff to by football. The education programme has been support apprentices throughout their two years. designed by our sector skills council SkillsActive LFE aim to help all apprentices achieve the in partnership with football authorities and requirements to complete the apprenticeship government agencies. and to support apprentices moving into positive Our Regional Officers are your direct link with destinations 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 Apprenticeship 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 Programme lfe.org.uk 7 Our Partners

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

8 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 9 Keeping you informed Publications Publications include Touchline - our quarterly magazine - and guides to support players LFE is committed to supporting all apprentices LFETV showcases our Goal of the Month considering Higher Education throughout and beyond their two-year competition which features the best goals from or soccer scholarships in the apprenticeships. all the Academy Leagues and attracts over USA. We have developed a number of channels 25,000 viewers each season. to engage everyone associated with the We utilise an e-learning platform to manage the apprenticeship programme. education programme and to provide players Our website and social media channels are the with useful guidance and information on a first port of call for the latest news. variety of real life issues like dealing with agents, money, drugs and sex. We tackle all areas from apprenticeship related issues to coverage of all the U18 Leagues - incorporating fixtures, results, league tables and match reports.

Digital & Social Media Follow us online and via Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube to stay ahead of the latest developments.

Face-to-face LFE staff support apprentices throughout and beyond the two-year programme to help players realise their potential.

10 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 11 Player and Club Testimonials

Ryan Sessegnon Jack MacFarlane Scott Fitzgerald Mark Wilgose Fulham Brighton & Hove Albion Academy Manager, Head of Education (Now Tottenham (Now Law graduate from Millwall and Welfare, Hotspur) University of Portsmouth) Sheffield United

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The 2018 EFL Awards were dominated by Ryan Former Brighton & Hove Albion apprentice 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 Jack is already targeting managerial roles at TJ we do to develop young players at youth level. apprenticeship at Sheffield United that Championship Apprentice of the Year. Transport after achieving a first-class degree in It is extremely rewarding to see a number of Education is not part of a Plan B, it is part of Plan The talented England youth international was a Law in 2018. youngsters graduate into the first-team. A in terms of helping them to become a better person, a better footballer and giving them a mainstay in Fulham’s team throughout the full “My apprenticeship really prepared me for Ben Thompson, Aiden O’Brien, Billy Mitchell better understanding of the game they play. length of his apprenticeship and earned a £25m University in a way I never expected,” he said. and George Alexander have all progressed in move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2019. “It taught me to be independent, I was a lot recent times. It is a message that reverberates around our Academy and one that is fully endorsed by our And yet, Ryan remained committed to his more mature and it gave me life skills that made As a club we are fully committed to both Academy Manager, Jack Lester, who had a long academic studies. He told LFE: “It’s been me ready for the experience of meeting new the football and educational aspects of the playing career before beginning his coaching important to me to pass my education because people, taking on new challenges and living Apprenticeship scheme because by striking the career. you never know what can happen. away from home.” right balance between the two we can ensure “I don’t really get a lot of free time but when I that the needs of every individual apprentice are We want all of our young players to prosper do I make sure I do the right things and just keep met. and fulfil their potential. Kyle Walker, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Harry Maguire and others have working on making myself better, whether that’s The apprenticeship is about producing players come through the system here to make huge football or education.” but also individuals who can be a success away strides in the game while others have gone on from the game. to soccer scholarships in America, studied for Jamie Hopcutt Alex Willis The nature of the programme helps to develop degrees in the UK or gone on to other jobs. transferable skills that are a great back-up York City Charlton Athletic ​All of our players go out on work experience for those that just fall short of making it as (Eight seasons at (Now Northern to businesses in the local community that are a professional footballer. Östersunds FK) Kentucky University) partners of the club. We want to get them out into the big wide world just so they get a feel of what it is like to do a real job so they can appreciate what the working world is like for a lot of people and get a breadth of different experiences while they are here. Having been released by York City in 2010, Despite being offered a professional contract by Jamie has forged an impressive career in Charlton, the lure of a soccer scholarship in the Sweden. USA took Alex to the other side of the Atlantic. Converted into a central striker, Hopcutt played “I would say you get the best of both worlds, in a key role in helping Ostersunds FK reach the terms of preparing for the distant future with a Swedish Premier League for the first time in degree, but also working every day to become their history and featured during the club’s a better player and striving to be a professional stunning 2017-18 Europa League run, even footballer,” he said. starting at the Emirates Stadium in a 2-1 victory “It’s a life-changing experience and one I would over Arsenal. highly recommend as it has helped me as a "We want all of our young players to prosper and fulfil their potential. Hopcutt had been turning out for Tadcaster person and a player.” Albion before making the switch to Scandinavia Kyle Walker, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Harry Maguire and others have via LFE’s Erasmus+ player placement come through the system here to make huge strides in the game" programme.

12 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 13 Apprenticeship Programme

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

Sporting Excellence Professional (Level 3) Football Player Development

BTEC and/or Certificate Apprenticeship A-Level (Level 3) in Coaching (Level 2) programme Academic Education

Functional Skills (Level 2) English & Mathematics

14 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 15 Apprenticeship Programme

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

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

16 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 17 Apprenticeship Programme

Sporting Excellence Professional (Level 3) Core Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours Practical Observation Professional Interview supported The Sporting Excellence Professional • Technical performance – the movement and The apprentice must be observed by an by a portfolio of evidence Apprenticeship Standard is being introduced in skills that underpin techniques required to play independent assessor undertaking a range of The professional interview is a structured full for the 2020-21 season, having been piloted professional football day-to-day tasks as part of their regular working discussion between the apprentice and an by seven clubs during the 2019-20 campaign. • Tactical performance – understanding strategy patterns and training / match play schedules. independent assessor. The interview must last The key activities of an Apprentice on the and approach to professional football The practical observations should include the for 90 minutes, although additional interview time may be granted for apprentices with Sporting Excellence Professional are to: • Physical performance – development of following: appropriate needs. • effectively and successfully represent their physical capabilities to apply in a professional • Data analysis session (15 minutes) This will be supported by a portfolio of evidence, employer on the field of play at a local, environment • Practical training session (60 minutes) which should have a minimum of 20 and a regional, national or international level • Injury and risk management • Practical training session debrief (15 minutes) maximum of 25 pieces of evidence. Examples of • undertake a daily training routine, supported • Effective, safe and inclusive practice • Video showcase (45 minutes) evidence are: by a multi-disciplinary team, to ensure they • Anti-doping retain and develop the technical, tactical, • Question and Answer session with the • individual learning and development plans physical and psychological skills necessary for • Nutritional performance Independent Assessor (45 minutes) • witness testimonies performing at the professional level • Psychological and emotional performance – the • poster presentations ability to cope with the psychological demands of • practice a lifestyle conducive to maintaining a • video analysis of match play high level of performance a sport in order to perform at an optimum level • digital storytelling • act as an ambassador for their employer, sport • Communications • training logs and governing body in relation to younger • Lifestyle and personal development players, fans and the local community – • Career and self-development including their approach to diversity, equality • Integrated approach to performance – the and inclusion active combination of all disciplines that • actively plan for life after their sporting career contribute equally to achieve high performance and to supplement the next phase of playing • Behaviours, professionalism and values contract End Point Assessment The End Point Assessment consists of three distinct assessment methods. • A knowledge test with multiple-choice questions and scenario-based questions • A practical observation with questions and answers • A professional interview, supported by a portfolio of evidence. Knowledge Test The knowledge test should be taken as early as possible in the three-month period of the EPA to allow for subsequent marking. The test will be comprised of 40 mandatory multiple-choice questions and 6 scenario-based questions. The knowledge test is graded as fail, pass or distinction. Apprentices will have 90 minutes to complete the knowledge test, which will be closed book – i.e. the apprentice cannot refer to reference books or materials.

18 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 19 Apprenticeship Programme

Academic Education BTEC National Extended Diploma A-Levels Academic Education consists of the BTEC (1080 GLH) If an Apprentice wishes to undertake A-Level Sporting Excellence and Performance and/ or Includes seven mandatory units. Learners must qualifications, they will need their respective A-Levels. This should be discussed with the at least 300 GLH of optional units. LFE Regional Officer and club Head of Education apprentice at Initial and Final Assessments with Learners must achieve a Pass or above in all to complete an approval form. the LFE Regional Officer and will be subject to mandatory units. A-Levels can be difficult to timetable into the anticipated/confirmed GCSE results. football training programme. Club Heads of Course Length and Duration There are three BTEC qualification sizes: Education and LFE Regional Officers can offer The Extended Certificate qualification could be more guidance on this subject. BTEC National Extended Certificate completed over one year, while the Diploma and LFE’s minimum entry criteria is the following: (360 Guided Learning Hours) Extended Diploma should be completed over Includes three mandatory units. two years. • Five GCSE’s at grade 7 or above, with one GCSE at grade 8 or 9 BTEC National Diploma • English (Language or Literature OR Maths (720 GLH) Did you know at grade 7 or above (can be included in the Includes five mandatory units. Learners must required five) complete one optional unit totalling 120 GLH or As a rough guide*, when making • Grade 7 or above in the A-Level subject(s) that two optional units totalling 60 GLH each. a university application... they wish to study (exceptions may apply) Extended Diploma = 3 x A-Levels Expectations for the Apprentice: Diploma = 2 x A-Levels • Attend classes Extended Certificate = 1 x A-Level • Complete coursework as required • Hit targets that are set BTEC Units • To contact their Regional Officer if they have any concern Unit Extended Diploma Extended Unit (number and title) size Certificate Diploma (GLH) (360 GLH) (720 GLH) (1080 GLH) A Careers in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry 90 M M M B Health, Wellbeing and Sport 90 M M M C1 Developing Coaching Skills 180 O C2 Fitness Skills Development 180 O C3 Professional Sports Performer 180 M M M D3 Applied Anatomy and Physiology for Professional Performance 180 M M E Research Project in Sport (Pearson-set) 120 O M 1 Sports Development 60 O O 4 Nutrition for Physical Performance 60 M M 7 Functional Sports Massage 60 O O 11 Rules, Regulations and Officiating in Sport 60 O O 13 Influence of Technology in Sport 60 O O 14 Organising Events in Sport and Physical Activities 60 O O 15 Ethical and Current Issues in Sport 60 O O 16 Marketing Communications 60 O 17 Corporate Social Responsibility in Sports 60 O 18 Sport and Leisure Facility Operations 60 O 19 Sports Tourism 60 O 20 School Sport Delivery 60 O O 22 Sports Law and Legislation 60 O O 23 Psychology for Professional Sports Performance 60 O M *Optional unit selections will be determined by LFE at the start of the Apprenticeship.

20 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme *For the full UCAS Tariff Table, see LFE’s ‘Guide to Higher Educations Applications’ lfe.org.uk 21 Apprenticeship Programme

Functional Skills Level 2 Certificate in Coaching Football Aims & Objectives of the Coaching Certificate The Value of your Coaching Qualification These are Level 2 qualifications in English and As part of the programme, each apprentice will The coaching qualification underpins the work The coaching certificate provides a formal and Maths that must be passed if GCSE English and/ also undertake the 1st4Sport Level 2 Certificate that each apprentice completes on the Level recognised qualification. or Maths are not achieved in school at Grade 4 in Coaching Football. This includes units on: 3 Sporting Excellence Professional and allows The course, which is a stepping stone to the or above. Functional Skills must be passed before • Coaching principles and ethics apprentices to: UEFA B Licence, should also allow the apprentice an apprentice can go through the End Point • Planning coaching sessions • Develop an appreciation of the ethical to understand the role of the coach, improve Assessment process of the Sporting Excellence coaching process upon their personal skills such as communication Professional (SEP). • Conducting coaching sessions • Plan, conduct and evaluate a series of football and give them greater responsibility. Course Length and Duration Course Length and Duration coaching sessions It also affords apprentices the opportunity to The length of the course depends on the number The course will comprise of: • Coach the basic skills and techniques of football coach in the following areas: of topics that each learner needs to cover, but • Theory and practical training to others • American Soccer Camps ideally it will be completed within the first year • Child Protection • Ensure the health and safety of players and • Academies* & Development Centres of the apprenticeship. Some will complete in • First Aid others within the coaching environment • Football in the Community less than 10 hours, whereas others will need • Develop greater responsibility for your own the whole year for the content they need to • Coaching Hours • Soccer schools learning and development cover. Functional Skills courses are tailored to • Formative Assessment • Local schools • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles the individual, so only the topics that need to be * Dependent on the role, a UEFA B Licence may be required covered will be studied. of attack and defence through the use of practices and small-sided games Assessment Did you know FA Introduction to First Aid in Football Functional Skills assessments are all taken online, As part of their programme, each on demand. This means that when an apprentice apprentice will also undertake This will also be delivered at the same time as is ready, they can take assessments. Results are the 1st4Sport Level 2 Certificate in Coaching back in within 20 working days. the 1st4Sport Level 2 Certificate in Football. The apprentice will receive tuition from a qualified emergency aid instructor and Maths assessments are 25 mins for test A and 90 Coaching Football. learn to deal with emergency situations such mins for test B as choking, heart attacks, major bleeding and English Reading assessments are 75 minutes the resuscitation of unconscious casualties. On English Writing assessments are 60 minutes completion this certificate is valid for a period of English Speaking Listening and Communication is three years. internally assessed for approximately 30 minutes

22 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 23 Apprenticeship Programme 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 to an apprentice’s circumstances might change Page 25 outlines the standard disciplinary minimum wage rates for apprentices is as travel to the club from home, lodgings should during the course of the programme. procedures that should be imposed on follows: be provided by the club. However clubs will be Termination by Mutual Consent apprentices who breach either club regulations entitled to charge apprentices up to £8.20 per or the code of discipline concerning college • £4.15 per hour from April 2020 - the rate In order for an apprentice’s contract to be day from April 2020. attendance. for apprentices aged 16-18 and those aged terminated by mutual consent, both the 19 or over who are in their first year as an In line with English Football League (EFL) Rules apprentice and the club must confirm their Clubs must ensure that the procedures on page apprentice on Youth Development and current legislation agreement with the terms of the termination. 27 are followed and that LFE is involved in each • £6.45 per hour for an apprentice aged 19 in clubs shall, in all dealings with apprentices, It is strongly advised that apprentices who may stage of the disciplinary process. the second year of their apprenticeship. do what is reasonable for the purpose of be considering terminating by mutual consent safeguarding apprentices’ welfare. Most clubs will operate their apprenticeship should discuss this matter with their LFE programmes on a 30 hour per week basis. Clubs are expected to ensure that lodgings are Regional Officer or The PFA who are aware of all in keeping with those required by a professional the implications. sportsman and should utilise guidance approved Signing Professional Forms by the EFL. If a club signs an apprentice on a professional Under the terms and conditions of the contract on his 17th birthday, or before the end Scholarship/Apprenticeship Agreement section of his apprenticeship, English Football League 5.3.1 The scholar shall not: “reside at any place rules state that he must continue with his which the club reasonably deems unsuitable for education course until it is completed. the performance of his obligations under 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 Programme lfe.org.uk 25 Change in Circumstances Discipline

Injury Apprenticeship Work Experience Between Clubs Apprentices are subject to club discipline and Termination There are two instances in which the Work experience allows an apprentice to this should be made clear at induction, with Clause 10.1 of the Apprenticeship Agreement circumstances of an apprentice might change spend a reasonable time training and playing all club rules and regulations explained fully to states that the club shall be entitled to due to injury: at another club. apprentices. terminate the agreement by fourteen days’ Apprentices should also be made aware of notice in writing to the apprentice if, after 1. Recoverable Injury Implications Apprentices who are suspended from the the disciplinary code of practice for college due investigation and enquiry, it is reasonably If an apprentice is at another club on work programme due to injury would still be attendance. satisfied that he: experience this does not prevent him from going expected to fulfil the educational element 1. Shall be guilty of Gross Misconduct; back to his original club as often as he likes. Schedule Two of the Scholarship/ of the apprenticeship whilst undergoing Indeed, the apprentice can travel backwards and Apprenticeship Agreement 2. Has failed to heed any final written warning rehabilitation or treatment. forwards on the strength of just one letter of Should any apprentice fall foul of these given under the provisions of Schedule Two 2. Permanent Incapacity permission. No recalls are necessary. regulations, then the disciplinary procedure (see above); or Apprentices who suffer an injury which The apprentice remains the original club’s player outlined in Schedule Two of the Apprenticeship 3. Is convicted of any criminal offence where results in permanent incapacity shall, upon who will hold his registration and be responsible Agreement will apply. In summary, this the punishment consists of an immediate receiving the correct notice (minimum 3 for all travel, lodging and apprentice wage procedure involves the following three steps: custodial sentence of or exceeding three months) as laid down in clause 8 of the payments. Should the apprentice be incurring 1. Investigation months. Apprentice’s Agreement, be released from lodging or high travel costs, it will be the the apprenticeship programme. 2. Disciplinary Hearing Notice of Termination responsibility of the original club to come to an 3. Appeals Under Clause 10.2 of the Scholarship/ Long Term Injuries agreement with the work experience club. Apprenticeship Agreement, clubs are required Penalties and Termination The club physiotherapist/doctor should make English Football League clubs cannot play to include in any notice of termination full a diagnosis to ascertain whether the apprentice apprentices that are on work experience from If, having followed the above procedure, an particulars of the club’s reasons for terminating has sustained an injury which could prevent him another club in any match at first team level. allegation is proved to the club’s satisfaction, the agreement with copies sent to the EFL, the from training/playing for a substantial period the club may apply the penalties outlined in Arranging a Permanent Move FA and the PFA. A copy should also be sent to of time. This period of absence from playing/ Schedule Two, Section 4 of the Apprenticeship LFE. training may prevent the club’s coaching staff Permanent transfer of apprenticeships between Agreement: clubs are allowed and in order to do this all Appeals from carrying out a thorough assessment of the 1. Issue a formal warning which should be issued applications with the original club should be apprentice’s playing ability. In the long term this as follows: Clause 10.3 of the Apprenticeship Agreement cancelled and new forms signed at his new club. may affect the apprentice’s chances of being (i) Verbal Warning states that within seven days of receiving a offered a professional contract. (ii) First Written Warning termination notice the apprentice may appeal Should this be the situation, the club may wish (iii) Final Written Warning against the decision of the club to the EFL. All parties should then seek to ensure that the to suspend the apprentice’s programme under 2. Impose a fine not exceeding the amount of appeal is heard within a further 28 days. Clause 4 of the Apprenticeship Agreement. 50% of his monthly basic wage. The clause states that if an apprentice is 3. Order the apprentice not to attend at any of prevented from participating in the training the club’s premises for such a period as the programme for a period in excess of five weeks, club thinks fit not exceeding two weeks. the duration of the Apprenticeship Agreement shall be extended by the length of the excess 4. Where the circumstances set out in Clause period or, if earlier, the apprentice’s 19th 10.1 of the Apprenticeship Agreement apply, birthday. terminate this agreement.

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 Programme lfe.org.uk 27 Discipline Safeguarding

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

28 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 29 Equality and Diversity Health and Safety Reporting of accidents/injuries and Industrial Diseases Procedure

LFE has a wide range of strategies to support the learner and the club Process to be followed: PFA Accident and Insurance Fund during the Apprenticeship programme to ensure that every apprentice • 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 receives Equality of Opportunity. Job Centre Plus for employment and support a contribution to the English Football League allowance and/or income support as soon as and Premier League on condition that all clubs Our Position & Commitment Club Responsibility possible after the injury occurring provide private medical insurance cover for both LFE is fully committed to a policy of Equality There is a significant amount of legislation to • The amount of benefit received by the full professionals and apprentices. of Opportunity. We aim to ensure that staff at address discrimination, which clubs should be apprentice is dependant upon individual In addition all current and former members all levels work in an environment free from any aware of, designed to ensure that each individual circumstances have access to the PFA’s Accident and Insurance discrimination on the grounds of age, disability, is treated equally and fairly. • During the period of incapacity, the apprentice Fund whereby grants may be made to help gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, All clubs should have policies and procedures cover medical expenses. The PFA also provides sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership will need to provide sick notes to confirm his in respect of Equality and Diversity. LFE continued eligibility to claim benefits Accident & Sickness Insurance of up to £25,000 and pregnancy and maternity. reserve the right to ask clubs for their equality for current members whose careers are cut Further guidance on this issue can be found at At the same time we also work hard to ensure documentation at any time. short due to a specific accident or illness. that every apprentice is treated fairly and is www.gov.uk by searching for employment and LFE expect all clubs to attend The EFL support allowance. 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 It is the responsibility of everyone involved of discrimination and that they are supported in the apprenticeship, including club staff and to understand their rights and responsibilities apprentices, to ensure that our policies are during the two-year programme. implemented and supported. We ask that all LFE will discuss equality awareness with clubs develop an environment where equality, apprentices during progress reviews to monitor fairness, security and respect are an integral part their understanding and experience during of apprentice programme. training. Clubs and apprentices will be able to access a wide range of support provided by Useful Websites LFE, starting with induction, right through to ACAS extensive exit and progression activities. Equality and Human Rights Commission During the year LFE will provide clubs, Kick It Out apprentices and Education Providers with the Ofsted opportunity to comment on how we manage the education programme and to suggest any The FA 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 2020-21 season.

30 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 31 Personal Development, Life Skills and Transition League Football Education wants more for apprentices than successful achievement of WHY? HOW? WHAT? the Apprenticeship programme - we support the development of well-rounded people. Those who embrace personal development as Accountability Ambition Appreciation well as alternative interests, employment, education or training, equip themselves to Caring Competitiveness excel as footballers and for life off-the-field. Confidence Courage Creativity Personal Development POR LFE’s Personal Development SUP TS Model provides a framework ORMA Curiosity Determination for planning and delivering this RF NC wider development. E E P Discipline Empathy Encouragement

Enthusiasm Focus W

Hard Working Honesty Humility N E

S O L U S Interpersonal T I Initiative L P Skills P R T - O O I R P B T P S U S Leadership Loyalty Motivation E S N IN A TR Patience Positivity

Resilience Respect Self-awareness

Social Self-esteem Awareness YOU DECIDE... Trust Trustworthiness Unselfishness

32 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 33 Personal Development & Life Skills Transition

League Football Education provides information, Life Skills League Football Education defines ‘Transition’ advice and guidance for personal development. League Football Education is committed to as the ability to deal with and move through life Through face-to-face delivery and resources, providing life skills-based education to support challenges, including career pathways in and out apprentices receive opportunities to support apprentice success in and out of professional of football. their performance, well-being and transition. football. LFE will support your journey by providing: Personal Development Model LFE’s Life Skills Programme aims to raise Transition Officer awareness and empower apprentices with LFE’s Personal Development Model provides A dedicated, qualified person providing knowledge and skills to deal with the demands a framework for club staff and apprentices transition information, advice and guidance. to understand the supportive outcomes and of football and life. process for wider development. Here are some examples of the life skills-based Transition Tracking and Monitoring Programme Personal Development Programme education provided through face-to-face A proactive programme contacting all delivery, online modules and resources: apprentices on completion of the Apprenticeship PROVIDE • Equality & Diversity programme and for three years afterwards. It Resources and guidance for club delivery, will gather information on what support you • Finance including a personal development module to need and at the same time offer information, create an individualised plan • Identity advice and guidance. • Inspirational PREPARE Career Opportunities • Mental Health Personal development awareness workshop Leading employers, educators and training delivered by a PDM in one session • Ramadan Awareness providers recognise the talent and abilities that PLAN • Sexual Health apprentices can offer their organisations. Personal development mentoring programme • Social Media LFE will advertise education, employment and delivered by a PDM across eight sessions • Well-Being training opportunities for current and former apprentices. Personal Development Mentors (PDM) This will be supported by targeted e-flyers to current/former apprentices and their parents. START A dedicated online career guidance tool for you to access whenever you want. More information on how to utilise the resource is available here.

Dru Spinks Mark Roberts

34 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 35 Transition

Football Opportunities ERASMUS+ Programme Higher Education/USA Scholarships Traditionally, LFE (in conjunction with The LFE has secured funding to support club pre- Many apprentices are interested in entering Did you know EFL and The PFA) has run Assessment Trials season trips to Italy, Spain and the Netherlands, Higher Education once they complete their Signing with a football agent for players released at the end of their as well as providing released players with Apprenticeship programme. apprenticeship and is committed to supporting personal development and footballing This has to be carefully planned for UCAS may lead to a player becoming players with football opportunities post- opportunities via a three-month placement application deadlines. To help you with this, INELIGIBLE to represent a USA apprenticeship. programme with European Partner Clubs. LFE has produced a ‘Guide to Higher Education University soccer team. Over 200 former apprentices have gone on Applications’ which can be downloaded via our placement and over 80 players have earned website. professional contracts in Sweden and Spain LFE has also established a partnership with as a result. PASS4Soccer - a consultancy that specialise in securing scholarships to USA universities. For more information, please see the HE & USA Scholarship Guides: Club and Apprentice Downloads

36 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 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 The 11, which is aligned to apprentice reviews, each division at the annual English Football celebrates the holistic development of young League Awards dinner. players, with 33 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 Previous winners include Lewis Cook (Leeds EFL Awards for the LFE Apprentice of the Year. United now AFC Bournemouth), Ademola The 11 Lookman (Charlton Athletic now RB Leipzig), Ben The 11 is judged on academic and football Godfrey (York City now Norwich City) and Ryan progress, as well as other off the pitch factors, Sessegnon (Fulham now Tottenham Hotspur). e.g. engaging in the football club’s community Goal of the Month initiatives. This competition runs three times each LFE’s Goal of the Month competition highlights season, with the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin the very best goals scored by apprentice players (Sheffield United now Everton), Oli McBurnie up and down the land. With each month’s winner (Bradford City now Sheffield United), Matty decided by a public vote, it regularly attracts Longstaff (Newcastle United) and Ben Wilmot thousands of online viewers. Check it out at here. (Stevenage now Watford) all previously appearing in this select group.

38 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 39 Additional Information

Child Benefit Intermediaries/Agents LFE has been informed by Her Majesty’s LFE advise holding discussions with The PFA Revenue and Customs (HMRC) that following a before deciding on whether to sign with an review, parents/guardians of apprentices on the agent. The PFA will be able to offer advice on Apprenticeship programme are not entitled to the benefits or downsides of signing with an receive Child Benefit. agent and the costs involved. This is because HMRC deem the Scholarship The function of an agent is to: Agreement to be a Contract of Employment • Represent the client’s best interests and therefore consider apprentices to be in • Assist in negotiations with clubs employment (as opposed to the ‘non-employed’ status they were previously considered as), this • Provide professional support and assistance makes apprentices ineligible for Child Benefit. with career and career development • Arrange commercial deals Pro Contract • Look after press/media issues if appropriate On or before the third Saturday in May in the final year of his Scholarship/Apprenticeship Apprentices are not obliged to sign with an Agreement the club will be required to give agent and could represent themselves, consult written notice to the scholar indicating whether with a solicitor or work with a close family or not upon expiry of his agreement it intends member (unpaid) when dealing with any of the offering the scholar a professional contract and issues above. if so setting out the terms thereof. Apprentices In addition, as a member of the PFA, apprentices should not expect to be told before April in year will be entitled to free advice from the PFA who two of the programme, if they will be made the are able to provide hands-on representation in offer of a professional contract. contract negotiations, give access to financial advice and offer a number of other free services that could be of benefit. Quality Assurance LFE’s quality manager oversees rigorous policies and procedures on all aspects of the programme. An annual Self-Assessment Report which includes feedback from all stakeholders, is produced against criteria of the Education Inspection Framework (Ofsted in England). LFE’s extensive observation strategy includes qualified Ofsted inspectors observing external staff such as NVQ assessors, education provider tutors, Functional Skills tutors and club staff. LFE Regional Officers are also regularly observed performing key duties. LFE continuously strives to improve the programme by listening to and acting upon feedback from apprentices, club staff and education provider personnel.

40 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 41 Contacts LFE Online

Visit www.lfe.org.uk

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

LFE Senior Management Team Read back issues of Touchline Sarah Stephen Keith Leighton Paul Bartlett Craig Skinner Chief Executive Chief Education Officer Regional Officer & Regional Officer 01772 326870 07734 844312 Designated Safeguarding 07802 684412 07545 556887 [email protected] Officer [email protected] [email protected] 07813 088469 [email protected]

LFE Central Office Staff LFE Regional Staff

Clive Cheetham Brian Kay Craig Skinner Gavin Willacy Quality Manager CT Study North West South & London Read all the latest news 01772 326872 Programme Manager 07802 684412 07796 442041 updates from LFE [email protected] 01772 326801 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Dan Jolley Claire Wilberforce-Marsh Tom Palmer Project Manager Jenny Lees North West & Midlands South 01772 326874 MIS Administrator 07709 485831 07834 965810 [email protected] 01772 326873 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Angela Bromley Keith Leighton Carl Craner Finance & Office Manager Jenny Hornby Midlands East 01772 326870 Executive PA 07734 844312 07791 560287 [email protected] 01772 326873 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Elaine Brand TBC Sarah Kayley PCT Assistant Manager Anthony Cato Midlands North West 01772 326874 Transition Officer TBC 07753 343394 [email protected] 01772 326875 TBC [email protected] [email protected] Simon Williams Pat Lally Mairi Glynn Life Skills Manager Jack Wylie North National NVQ & 01772 326874 Communications Officer 07802 684421 Apprenticeship Standard [email protected] 01772 326874 [email protected] Manager (SEP) [email protected] 07766 551 848 Kelly Butterworth Paul Bartlett [email protected] Project Officer Lorraine Nour North & North East 01772 326874 Quality Improvement 07813 088469 Emma Mitchell [email protected] Assistant [email protected] Functional Skills, Watch LFE TV Check the Academy results 01772 326872 English & Maths Manager Greg Fearon Roger Gibbins [email protected] 07917 865458 Data Manager South West & Wales [email protected] 01772 326873 07808 787901 [email protected] [email protected]

42 Welcome to the Apprenticeship Programme lfe.org.uk 43 League Football Education EFL House T 01772 326870 10-12 West Cliff E [email protected] Preston PR1 8HU lfe.org.uk