Play football alongside your college studies with AFC Wimbledon. Suitable for male and female players of all academic and football abilities.
AFC Wimbledon X RuTC
The educational partnership between AFC Wimbledon and Richmond upon Thames College (RuTC) holds immense promise and potential.
AFC Wimbledon, as a prominent football club with a strong community focus, will provide unique opportunities for students to gain practical experience in the world of sport. This collaboration will also inspire and motivate students by offering access to educational enrichment opportunities including workshops, guest speakers and stadium visits. RuTC, with its rich educational resources and expertise, is committed to nurturing a well-rounded, academically-inclined community.
Together, we have created a dynamic partnership where sports and education complement each other, enriching the learning experiences of students and enhancing AFC Wimbledon's community engagement efforts.
Joining The AFC Wimbledon X RuTC Football Development Programme
The programme is suitable for those who are passionate about furthering their experiences within the worlds of sport and business. The Football Development Programme can be taken alongside one of the following RuTC courses, which you can apply for on the course pages:
- Business Level 2
- Sport Level 2
- Business Level 3
- Sport Level 3
- Sports Coaching and Development Level 3
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What you will study and learn
Access to the programme is gained by enrolment on one of five vocational courses delivered by RuTC. In addition to your academic studies, the programme provides participants with opportunities to train twice a week with AFC Wimbledon UEFA qualified staff. High quality coaching provides students with the platform to develop their technical, tactical, physical and psychological abilities. Based at RuTC and utilising the brand new, state-of-the-art facilities, you will combine your studies with training and playing football every week.
The courses that combine with the Football Development Programme:
- Business Level 2 (with AFC Wimbledon Football Development)
- Sport Level 2 (with AFC Wimbledon Football Development)
- Business Level 3 (with AFC Wimbledon Football Development)
- Sport Level 3 (with AFC Wimbledon Football Development)
- Sports Coaching and Development Level 3 (with AFC Wimbledon Football Development).
All training sessions and matches take place during college hours meaning that players of all abilities will be able to continue playing with their grassroots or semi-professional clubs whilst accessing the Football Development Programme.
Launching into a journey of skill development and career advancement, the AFC Wimbledon X RuTC Football Development Programme stands as a beacon for aspiring football enthusiasts. Enrichment activities, a cornerstone of this program, take place regularly at The Cherry Red Records Stadium, Plough Lane. These events provide students exclusive access to the rich range of skills and knowledge within the football club.
Beyond the pitch, AFC Wimbledon is deeply committed to elevating students’ employability skills. The programme opens doors to valuable work experiences, immersing students in community and academy projects, as well as AFC Wimbledon matchdays. This hands-on approach not only enriches delivery on the field but also strengthens students' CVs, offering a head start in their chosen career path.
As part of the Development Programme, students are not just spectators; they are active participants in their own success stories. Through engaging in enrichment activities and meaningful work experiences, they not only hone their football prowess but also cultivate a skill set that extends far beyond the pitch, laying a robust foundation for their future endeavours.
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Skills you will need to join the programme
Access to the Football Development Programme is for all academic and playing abilities, with players selected for teams based on their suitability. Our focus is not only to develop your performance as a player but to support you to achieve academic excellence. We balance training with your academic commitments, ensuring you can meet your potential in both areas, leading to a wider range of progression opportunities.
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Progression benefits
Your progression will depend on the completion of your course and the Football Development Programmne can help towards:
- Apprenticeships in the sports industry
- University or American scholarships
- Job opportunities at AFC Wimbledon
- Job opportunities within the sport and leisure industry
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Costs
You will be required to purchase course textbooks and AFC Wimbledon X RuTC training and match kits which will cost approximately £200 - if you are entitled to Bursary, this money can contribute towards the cost of the kit.