Friendly match marks Manchester United Foundation course at St. Joseph’s Boys School

This match was not only significant as the first game for the BTEC students, but signified a collective effort between, St Joseph’s Boys School, The Manchester United Foundation, Ulster University and the Irish Football Association (IFA) to support and develop young people locally within the city and district.

The two-year BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport delivered by St Joseph’s teaching staff and Manchester United Foundation staff aims to give young people the skills, opportunities, experiences and qualifications to support and better their lives while training within a full-time football model.

The UEFA-qualified Manchester United Foundation staff deliver football training, as well as health and well-being advice, plus academic support and mentoring alongside St Joseph’s Boys School staff, who deliver the academic course. Ulster University have offered wrap around support for course through academic support, student placement opportunities and vital facility use.

Throughout the year the IFA will deliver qualifications in sport around grassroots coaching, disability coaching and refereeing.

The students on the BTEC programme also have access to amazing opportunities throughout the year through Manchester United Foundation. One such example came in September, with students enjoying a behind-the- scenes experience at Old Trafford during the Manchester United Legends charity match at Old Trafford. They were also afforded the chance of going pitch-side during the opening ceremony as flagbearers, before enjoying the match from the stands.

Delighted to be in attendance at last week’s game played in the grounds of St. Joseph’s, School Principal, Ciara Deane, said this was another step forward in the link between the Foundation, Ulster University and St. Joseph’s.

“A lot of work has gone in throughout the summer in making the school ready for the new academic year and I’m delighted to see the Foundation play their part in helping make St. Joseph’s a home-from-home for the BTEC students. This is a further step forward in what we are trying to achieve at St. Joseph’s. Well done to all who took part in today’s game,” she added.

Stressing the importance of the education pathway, Declan Lynch, Manchester United Foundation BTEC Football Coach based at St. Joseph’s, said: “The education pathway must be the focus - students leaving with the equivalent of 3 ‘A’ levels is key. Football is the bonus, training within in a full-time football model will only help and support with the development of each player on and off pitch.’