YOUNG Oldham students are getting the chance to swap the classroom for the sports field as part of a new scheme aimed at helping them kick-start careers in the leisure industry.
Oldham Active and Oldham College have joined forces to create a Workforce Academy, giving sports and fitness students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience alongside their college qualifications.
The programme has similarities to an apprenticeship, with students splitting their time between college-based study and practical placements at Oldham Active venues and in the community.
The first group of 12 students joined the Workforce Academy earlier this year, with the scheme expanding as the new academic year gets under way.
Among those taking part is 16-year-old Josh, who is studying for his Sports Coach Level 3 qualification at Oldham College.
As part of his placement, he has been helping Oldham Active deliver community sports programmes in local schools – giving him the chance to put what he is learning into practice.
Josh said: “I’m really enjoying being part of the Workforce Academy and have been gaining valuable experience, helping the Oldham Active team to deliver community sports programmes at local schools. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain real-life coaching experience alongside my qualifications, which will definitely benefit my planned future career as a sports coach, and make me more desirable to future employers.”
The scheme is designed to give students a broader understanding of the different careers available across the health, wellbeing and leisure sector.
Those taking part can gain experience in a variety of roles, whether working at one of Oldham Active’s leisure centres or helping deliver activities in the wider community.
‘A career in leisure is incredibly varied and rewarding’
Steve Ferriss, Sport Development Officer at Oldham Active, said: “At a time when youth unemployment nationally has hit an 11-year high, our Workforce Academy creates a crucial clear pathway into employment.
“The students, who are aged 16 to 18, are given the flexibility to explore different roles within the health and wellbeing sector, be that working at one of our leisure centres or out in the community. Upon successful completion of their qualifications, they will have the opportunity to transition into paid positions, allowing us to future-proof Oldham Active’s workforce.
“A career in leisure is incredibly varied and rewarding, giving people the chance to help our community live better every day, while offering the purpose and impact this younger generation is looking for in a career.
“We’ve loved having the Oldham College students as part of our team, watching them learn and develop key skills whilst carving out their future career. We have been excited to welcome new students as they start their courses this term.”
The partnership has been several years in the making, with the first students now getting the opportunity to build up industry experience before they have even finished their studies.
Dominic Pates, Programme Tutor, Sport & Academies, Oldham College, said: “It’s fantastic to see this partnership between Oldham College and Oldham Active officially come to life after several years of planning.
“Through the Workforce Academy, our learners will gain valuable, real-world experience in sport development and fitness, helping them build the skills, confidence and industry knowledge needed for successful careers.”
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