Derby County Community Trust are thrilled to announce the continuation of the existing partnership in place with Friesland School, which offers 16-18 year olds the unique opportunity to combine their studies with training and competitive fixtures.

The partnership has been in operation for three years and has seen significant growth, with two male teams and a female team currently all completing their studies at the school.

It is one of four partner venues on the Football and Education programme, which provides opportunities across the county with Chesterfield College, Buxton and Leek College and in-house education currently delivered at Derby Rugby Club.

The various education partners are able to offer a variety of academic options, from GCSE resits, Cambridge National qualifications and a range of A Level subjects, which are delivered at the Friesland site.

Facilities at Friesland include a state of the art 3G ATP which is used for all squads’ training and home fixtures. Its ideal location, just off the M1, means it’s an accessible venue for students from Derbyshire and beyond, and is well-located for away teams.

Derby County Community Trust are pleased to not just work in collaboration on the Football and Education project, but also support the steering group for the pitch facilities and its wider community use.

Michael Noon, who oversees the Football and Education programme at the Trust, said, “We are set to enrol the largest number of learners to date on our course in September 2021, and the continued support of Friesland School is pivotal to making that happen.

“The growth of the course is testament to the quality of provision on offer, both academically and on the football pitch, and we are looking forward to seeing year-on-year expansion across all our venues.”

Craig Patterson, Headteacher at Friesland School, said, “We are absolutely delighted to be continuing our partnership with Derby County Community Trust.

“The offer has provided students with a wealth of opportunities and it’s a fantastic addition to our post-16 options.

“The growth of the female programme in particular has been fantastic to see and it is great to host so many teams here using the football facilities on site.”

Upcoming open days will take place over the Easter holidays at Friesland School, University of Derby and Chesterfield College, for 16-18 year olds who are planning their next steps. Find out more and register at: https://www.derbycountycommunitytrust.com/programmes/education-and-employability/football-and-education