The Aston Villa Foundation's Sports Coaching and Development Foundation Degree - delivered collaboratively with Birmingham City University - is a route for young people to become sports practitioners, following the charity's Golden Thread of Opportunity.
Harry and Kian are current Level 5 students who have received mentoring within their degree studies, working with experienced Foundation coaching staff from Football Development and Primary School and Sport Education provisions.
Harry joined the Foundation’s Post-16 Further Education course in September 2021 before progressing to the degree. He is on track to achieve his aspirations of becoming a football coach.
"The [Sports Coaching and Development] course is not just tailored to football, but to all sports," Harry said.
"Having the experience to work with coaches provides a direct connection within a football and club community organisation. I was fortunate to have most of my mentoring experience at the Inner-City Academy, an industry-leading facility for young footballers and coaches like me.
"I also had opportunities to work in schools with year 2 and year 6 pupils, which opened my eyes to the varied needs and learning styles of different age groups.
"Such experiences have boosted my confidence and improved my ability to learn and adapt in real life work settings."
Kian added: "It is amazing to see how sport and football can hook children into their personal and academic development. Through my work placement, I observed coaches and applied new knowledge and skills to my practice, coaching children.
"There are various aspects you struggle to see in theory, such as exploring how to engage yourself within a coaching session once you have explained the task/exercise to players. My mentor, Iscah, supported me in integrating myself more into sessions, which has further strengthened my confidence.
"Developing your coaching ability can be greatly improved by observing experienced coaches and practice, which I have achieved with this work placement.
"It has been a great experience to learn outside of the classroom in varied facilities, different environments, and from staff who can share their experiences in sports coaching."
Jonathan McCarthy, Foundation Degree lecturer, said: "The Foundation is a working organisation, which is invaluable when looking for opportunities for students to take on work placements. This is something unique about our course.
"While students need to gain relevant knowledge, certifications, and qualifications, the transfer of knowledge from experienced coaches to the students on a physical level is unteachable in the classroom."
Calin: Foundation Degree Graduate to Foundation Coach
Calin joined the course during the first cohort. Since completing the course, he has progressed onto a BSc Sports Coaching and Development Degree at Birmingham City University and concurrently a coaching role at the Foundation.
He said: "Completing the Foundation degree was a transformative experience, and it gave me the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to step into my coaching role.
"The support and guidance from the incredible coaches and staff was invaluable; their expertise and encouragement inspired me throughout the journey and continues to motivate me as I work to impact others positively."
Sports Coaching and Development Foundation Degree
