Shireland Collegiate Academy in Smethwick and Aston Villa Foundation have announced a partnership to deliver a specialist football programme for the Academy’s Sixth Form students.
The initiative responds to growing student interest in sports-focused learning by providing the opportunity to pursue their passion for sport alongside their academic studies and explore broader career options.
Participants will benefit from professional coaching, structured training sessions, opportunities to play in competitive fixtures, and support in areas such as sports science, nutrition and personal development.
Additional opportunities include working towards a sports leadership qualification and taking part in the EFL CEFA, and the Birmingham County FA Wednesday College League. While studying A level and vocational courses at Shireland Sixth Form, students can play regular midweek football matches in a structured and supportive environment.
The league is for students aged 16-19 in the Birmingham area of the West Midlands and is run locally by the Birmingham County FA (BCFA) as part of the English Football League’s Community and Education (CEFA) programme. The competition gives students the chance to develop their football skills, stay active, and enjoy competitive matches alongside their studies. It provides a pathway for non-elite players to improve and progress in football.
Ben Brogan, Head of Sixth Form at Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “We are proud to be partnering with Aston Villa Foundation to offer this programme, which aims to address the drop-off in sport at post-16. It also gives students the opportunity to continue playing while pursuing a top-quality education. Our aim is to develop well-rounded young people with the skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed in whatever path they choose.
“We also want our students, and the wider community, to have a platform to stay active, build character, and achieve. At Shireland, we instil the values of commitment, honesty and opportunity for all, and the team at Villa have delivered all of this and more. I’m genuinely excited about what this partnership will unlock for our students, on and off the pitch.”
Shireland Sixth Form boasts a vibrant and inclusive learning community committed to academic excellence and personal development. Offering a wide range of A level, vocational and Level 2 courses, it provides students with tailored pathways to higher education, apprenticeships and employment. Rated outstanding by Ofsted in 2024, the Sixth Form is known for its supportive environment, innovative programmes and enrichment opportunities, equipping learners with the skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.
Andrew Coley, Further & Higher Education Manager at the Aston Villa Foundation said: “We at the Aston Villa Foundation are pleased to welcome Shireland Collegiate Academy as a partner to our growing Football and Education provision.
Alongside coaching delivered by our dedicated coaches, the education package offered by Shireland opens doors to a wide range of A level, vocational and Level 2 courses, to develop the next generation of workers in sport, following the Foundation’s Golden Thread of Opportunity.”
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.
The partnership between Shireland Sixth Form and the Foundation represents a shared commitment to innovation in post-16 education. By combining academic excellence with expert sporting provision, both institutions aim to inspire students, broaden opportunities and create experiences that will leave a lasting impact on their education and future prospects.
Applications for Year 12 at Shireland Sixth Form starting September 2026 are now open through Applicaa, the Academy’s new online admissions system, where students can apply and track their progress in real time.
To find out more or apply, visit www.collegiateacademy.co.uk.
