Induction Week 2023: Blackpool FC Sports College

Blackpool FC Sports College welcomed all new students with an exciting and fun week.

What better way to kickstart the academic year than with a day of intense teambuilding exercises with the Army? Students faced problem-solving, obstacle courses, tactical challenges and group exercises that promoted leadership, discipline and teamwork to meet the required aims.

Students on the Football Academy pathway got stuck straight into training and took part in an in house football match, showcasing their football abilities; whilst the Sports Coaching students attended workshops to enhance knowledge which then enabled them to deliver practical sessions to others. Other students chose to look at sports analysis and completed many live assessments on a chosen player.

Students took part in a stadium tour, gaining access to the changing rooms and dugout at Blackpool FC. This was a fantastic day where students felt inspired and motivated to pursue their chosen career in the future.

Back in the classroom, students had the opportunity to meet their personal tutor and gain insight into their course of study, gaining valuable knowledge in various subject areas.

As we embark on this academic year, staff at Blackpool FC Sports College have already witnessed friendship groups develop which will not only enhance college experiences but academic achievements. As a college, we aspire to create a vibrant and supportive community that fosters both personal and academic excellence.

One of our BTEC students said,

“I’ve found my first two weeks at college a lot better than what I thought it would be, I was scared it was going to be like school but it’s nothing like school at all, you are treated with respect and like a young adult. Josh is an amazing tutor and always gets you in a good mood and makes you laugh.”

It has also been an action-packed start to the year for our degree students. We welcomed our new cohort with a bang as they spent a week in South Wales, experiencing university life on their induction residential.

Whilst there they met their University of South Wales (USW) course lead and lecturers and experienced the fantastic facilities that USW offers. Fast forward a couple of weeks and our 1st-year students are well into their studies, completing lectures in Sports Science, Managing Sports, and preparing for upcoming assessments.

Sophie Breakell, Degree Tutor at Blackpool FC Sports College commented on the student’s first few weeks of their courses,

“Our degree students were a credit to Blackpool FC Sports College during their induction residential at the University of South Wales, engaging in all activities and making a positive first impression on staff. I am looking forward to seeing the students settle into university life, and thrive in their work placement opportunities they are able to experience through Blackpool FC Community Trust.”

Ben Atkinson, 1st years Sporting Coaching Degree Student added,

“I really enjoyed residential, it gave me a good insight into the course and what is expected. The University of South Wales facilities were amazing and the lecturers were engaging and supportive. I can’t wait to see what this year has in store.”