St. Joseph’s partners with Derry City and Steven Gerrard Foundation

St. Joseph's Boys' School have partnered with both Derry City Football Club and the Steven Gerrard Foundation to launch an innovative programme to help students earn a pathway to a future in sport.

The launch on Monday afternoon last, saw prospective students and their parents given an in-depth analysis of how the programme works and how they can benefit from becoming involved.

The course itself allows students to develop their coaching skills and even offers work opportunities.

On completion of the programme, students will receive the following qualifications depending on the route they choose - BTEC National Diploma in Sport Level 3.

Those in attendance included Derry City manager Tiernan Lynch and several of his senior players, the Bishop of Derry, Dr. Donal McKeown, representatives from the Steven Gerrard Foundation and the Ulster University as well other organisations from throughout the city.

IN PICTURES: St. Joseph’s partners with Derry City and Steven Gerrard Foundation

The programme, designed to develop leaders of the future, will allow students the opportunity to gain valuable experiences and an insight into the coaching philosophies of the local Academy and the Steven Gerrard Foundation (former Liverpool FC stars). This will in turn aim to develop young people and prepare them for employment.

Targeted at young players with a passion for football or sports in general, this new and highly acclaimed Triple Award Level 3 BTEC in Sports (equivalent to 3 A-Levels) was on offer to those in attendance.

As well as school Principal, Mrs. Ciara Deane giving a talk on how to apply, other speakers included Mark McCrystal, Derry City and Danny Harrison, Steven Gerrard Foundation. There was also information given by Conor Meehan from Ulster University.

Delighted by the turnout at Monday’s launch, Mrs. Deane, Principal said St. Joseph’s continues to invest in educational excellence, adding: ‘Our school, in collaboration with Derry City Football Club’s Academy and the Steven Gerrard Academy will offer an investment in a high-quality curriculum for sport with the expertise of sports coaching.

‘The principles of our academy programme will build on the existing relationships with the academy and shape the options for young players from 11-18 years.

‘St. Joseph’s will work with the academies and offer progressive and high-quality qualifications that support pathways to university, training and employment.’

The school principal emphasised that the success of the programme will be determined by the high outcomes for those taking part in a curriculum that utilises a strength-based approach to learning that will promote meaningful engagement with children and young people in sport across the city and district.

Speaking at Monday’s launch, former St. Joseph’s student and now senior Derry City player Ciaron Harkin said it was a great opportunity for young players to develop their talents while gaining qualifications.

‘What an amazing opportunity for the young players of our city, my football club and my old school. It’s a shame this wasn’t available when I was younger but at the same time it’s great to see the next generation of Players get the experience. The chance to train and play full-time for Derry City while pursuing an education is a perfect blend of passion and practicality. I really look forward to watching this programme grow and develop.’

Anyone looking further information on the programme is asked to contact the school on 02871 262923 or mgrant700@stjosephs.derry.ni.sch.uk