ASPIRING footballers in Herefordshire have a new opportunity to continue their playing dream whilst staying education once they leave school.

Herefordshire & Ludlow College has collaborated with Cheltenham Town to create a new opportunity for budding footballers to remain in education post-16.

The Football Education Programme allows students to train and play like professional athletes, while obtaining a Sport Level 2 or Level 3 qualification.

Each week, there will be up to eight hours of football training and game time, alongside strength and conditioning training and individual programmes – which are led by UEFA-licensed coaches.

Student’s football development can be combined with either a BTEC Level 2 or 3 in sport.

Each programme will include maths and English qualifications for those that need them, as well as gaining employability skills and work experience.

Students may be able to progress to university after being on the programme to take their education further, or alternatively apprenticeships are available.

Any player who excels on the football and education programme will also have the opportunity to train with the Cheltenham Town FC Academy youth team.

The trials are taking place at Herefordshire FA 3G, County Ground, Widemarsh Common, Hereford, HR4 9NA on Thursday, June 3 (9-12 noon); Friday, June 18 (9-12 noon) and Tuesday, June 24 (9-12noon).

To apply for a trial click HERE