School leavers finding out their GCSE results with a passion for sport are being encouraged to learn more about Oxfordshire’s premiere football-based educational academy.
Based at Oxford City FC in Marston, Velocity Football is a full-time programme which blends daily on-field training with competitive matches and education towards industry recognised qualifications.
It offers apprenticeship, BTEC and alternative provision programmes in addition to school placements and is suitable for anyone aged 16-23 with aspirations to fulfil a career in sport.
Modules on each syllabus include sports psychology, coaching, nutrition and professional skills and extend to strength and conditioning, injury prevention and media.
Justin Merritt, Director of Velocity Football, said the programme serves as an excellent stepping-stone to higher education and university in addition to supporting on-field opportunities via Oxford City FC’s proven development pathway.
“GCSE results day can be a time of uncertainty for some school leavers, who may be undecided on their next steps,” said Justin. “Our primary aim at Velocity Football is to develop well-rounded individuals, both male and female, so they can aspire towards a successful career in sport.
“We do this by delivering a unique learning environment where players can work towards quality qualifications, train regularly and develop a strong understanding of sport’s various career pathways.
“Our graduates have gone on to fulfil successful careers as professional footballers, secure full-time jobs in the sports industry and continue with their studies via university.”
Among recent graduates of the Velocity programme is newly signed Swindon Town defender Udoka Godwin-Malife. He graduated from the programme’s Level 3 BTEC course and represented Oxford City FC while completing his studies.
Udoka said: “Velocity Football is a fantastic programme. You meet new people and develop friends for life while training and establishing a solid education.
“Sport was my passion and I wanted to explore the different employment opportunities available – Oxford City’s education programme allowed me to do that.
“Not everyone on the programme wants to be a professional footballer, but if you do have that dream and you’re on the course then you’re in a good place.”
Velocity Football is open to anyone with four GCSEs or more and provides students with real-life experiences across various sectors in sport through the programme’s strong community partnerships.
Further information is available via www.velocityfootball.co.uk.
