Ten local youngsters, keen on developing a future career in the sports industry, are getting the chance to develop their skills thanks to a unique new apprenticeship programme at Chesterfield Football Club.

The 24 week scheme is being provided by Chesterfield FC Community Trust, in conjunction with the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) and Lifeskills.

The youngsters, aged 16-19 years old, who have been selected will not only get a unique insight into the sports industry, but they get the chance to pass industry qualifications, such as:- Apprenticeship Level 2 in Activity Leadership. Two Apprenticeship framework technical certificates, and key skills in Maths and English, especially useful for those youngsters who don't already hold A-C (GCSE).

The apprentices will also become ambassadors of the Chesterfield FC Community Trust programme in an area of coaching and tutoring within Health, Sports Participation, Social Inclusion, Disability and Education.

John Croot, who heads the Chesterfield FC Community Trust, said: "By combining all of the qualifications with the on-the-job training means this new apprenticeship programme will provide the youngsters with a far more rounded learning experience and CV for future job opportunities."

The apprentices have already started work and will be fully involved in delivering the full-range of Community Trust activities for all age groups in the local community. This includes soccer coaching for youngsters to social groups and healthy activities for senior citizens.

For more information contact John Croot on 07896 314 692 or 01246 209765 Ext 6111