Shireland Sixth Form welcomed its new cohort of year 12 students to its Football Programme for the 2026/27 academic year, giving them the opportunity to combine their post-16 studies with regular football training and competitive fixtures.
Following GCSE Results Day, students selected for the programme completed their enrolment at Shireland Sixth Form before officially signing up to the Football Programme at Villa Park in Birmingham, where students also received an official tour.
The visit also marked the first time the cohort came together for official team photographs. The team will represent the Sixth Form and wider Academy in competitive fixtures throughout the year.
Ben Brogan, Head of Sixth Form at Shireland Sixth Form, commented: “We know that for many young people sport is a huge part of who they are and what motivates them. The opportunity to build that into their Sixth Form experience, while continuing to achieve academically, is something we are really proud to offer at Shireland.
“The programme gives students a different way to develop; they are learning to take responsibility, work with others, respond to setbacks and push themselves to improve. Those experiences have real value in the classroom too and ultimately help students become more confident and capable young people.”
The Shireland Sixth Form Football Programme is designed for students who want to develop their football alongside their post-16 education. Students can study A levels, vocational qualifications or level 2 courses while taking part in regular training and competitive fixtures.
Through the programme’s collaboration with the Aston Villa Foundation, students have access to opportunities that support their development on and off the pitch. These include training with UEFA-qualified coaches, visits to Aston Villa facilities for training and classroom-based activities, alongside the opportunity to work towards a sports leadership qualification.
Andrew Coley, Further & Higher Education manager at Aston Villa Foundation, said: “The Aston Villa Foundation’s work with Shireland on our Post-16 Provision, is a great example of a collaboration with education providers going from strength to strength, giving more students the opportunity to excel in education whilst optimising their employability through sport.”
The Foundation is a registered charity delivering the community and outreach work of Aston Villa Football Club. Working with a wide range of education providers and young people, the Foundation offers opportunities to develop skills, confidence and personal growth. Its Education and Employment strand focuses on classroom and community-based learning, training and qualifications, supporting long-term prospects and potential.
Applications for Year 12 at Shireland Sixth Form starting September 2027 are now open. To find out more and apply visit the Academy website.
