Oxford United in the Community has been announced as the new delivery partner for the club’s Advanced Football Programme, an initiative designed to help aspiring young athletes pursue a career in sport. The programme, developed in partnership with Abingdon and Witney College, provides a blend of high-level football training and academic studies for students aged 16-19.
Empowering Young Athletes
The Advanced Football Programme, launched in 2023, allows students to combine full-time education with football development. The initiative features twice-weekly training sessions at Oxford United’s Horspath Road training ground, alongside competitive matches in the National Youth League. The course is designed to equip students with the professional skills, knowledge, and behaviours necessary for both football and future careers within the sports industry.
High-Level Coaching and Mentoring
Oxford United in the Community’s UEFA-accredited coaches, including Rob Porter, Matt Harding, Rama Said, and Alex Blane, will lead the football development aspect of the programme. Their extensive experience will help guide students towards realising their full potential both on and off the pitch.
The programme also provides transport for all training sessions and matches, ensuring accessibility for all students, regardless of location.
Strengthening Community and Education
Oxford United in the Community’s involvement in the Advanced Football Programme aligns with its education and employability pillar, which focuses on using football as a tool to support young people in achieving their full potential. Chris Lowes, Chief Operating Officer at Oxford United in the Community, spoke about the importance of this initiative:
“Football has a tremendous power to bring the very best out of people.
“The club’s Advanced Football Programme is a perfect example of how we can combine regular training and matches with full-time education to help students aspire to a bright future and career.
“It’s a great opportunity for students who wish to reach their full potential on the pitch while securing a qualification which can set them up for future employment in the sports industry.
“Strengthening the existing relationship our team has established with Abingdon and Witney College is really pleasing too, and we look forward to working closely with its tutors and students on an ongoing basis.”
Celebrating the Partnership
To mark the partnership, students enrolled in the programme attended Oxford United’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Luton Town in the Championship. A pre-match presentation highlighted the wider work of Oxford United in the Community, showcasing how football can inspire and engage people across Oxfordshire. A similar presentation is set to take place at Abingdon and Witney College’s upcoming parents’ evening.
Education Beyond the Pitch
The academic side of the programme is led by Course Leader Liam Hare, a former graduate of the initiative who used his qualification to achieve a degree in Sports Coaching and Physical Education at Oxford Brookes University. The syllabus covers a wide range of modules, including coaching, psychology, injury prevention, and health and wellbeing.
Liam Hare emphasised the programme’s impact on career development:
“I’ve experienced first-hand how this programme can help to shape the careers of those who enrol.
“It’s a great stepping stone to learning more about the sports industry and what opportunities are available beyond the roles we might be more familiar with as football enthusiasts.
“Equally, it provides an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the professional environment of the training ground. We’re really pleased to formalise this new agreement with Oxford United in the Community and look forward to taking our delivery to the next level.”
Upcoming Trial Day – How to Join the Programme
For students interested in joining the 2025-26 programme, the first trial date is scheduled for Wednesday, 19th February, from 12pm to 3pm at Oxford United’s Bangkok Glass Training Complex (OX4 2RY).
The trial is open to both male and female squads. Those interested should apply for the programme in advance and sign up for the correct team. Applications can be reviewed following GCSE results to ensure students are placed in the appropriate level.
What the Programme Offers
Participants in the Oxford United Advanced Football Programme benefit from:
- A Level 2 or Level 3 sports-based vocational qualification (depending on entry grades).
- Regular training at Oxford United’s Bangkok Glass Training Complex with UEFA B-qualified coaches.
- An Oxford United season ticket.
- Participation in competitive league and cup tournaments.
- Official Oxford United training kit for matches.
How to Apply
Prior to attending the trial day, students must apply for the Oxford United Advanced Football Programme through Abingdon and Witney College.
For more information, visit the Oxford United in the Community website.
This partnership cements Oxford United in the Community’s role as a key player in developing aspiring footballers and sports professionals, providing a structured pathway from education to employment within the industry.
