University Centre Bishop Burton announces exciting new collaboration with SFS International

This new relationship presents a unique opportunity for students to play soccer full-time, alongside an academic qualification. Students will be able to choose from a range of specialisms including therapy and rehabilitation, coaching and strength and conditioning. In some cases, the qualification will incorporate accreditation so that on completion students can move fully qualified, directly into employment.

Samantha Terry, Programme Leader for the qualification at UCBB commented “We’re thrilled to be working with SFS on this new venture, which is an exciting addition to UCBB’s Sport and Exercise Science provision. Like all our degree programmes, the course will be evidence-based and geared around equipping students with the practical skills and experience to prepare them as well-developed, industry-ready professionals. Time dedicated to playing also presents a unique opportunity for them to apply their academic learning in an additional context, from the perspective of an athlete.”

Scarborough based SFS International has been running highly successful soccer initiatives since 2011. In 2019 they introduced their international programme, combining exceptional soccer coaching alongside top-quality education. The collaboration with UCBB represents a major development to their offer with the inclusion of degree level study.

SFS owner Steve Brennan said “We are delighted to be working with UCBB on this exciting initiative. At SFS we are dedicated to offering our players a unique and immersive experience, to help them grow and develop as footballers. This collaboration enhances the already excellent provision we had in place for UK and international players, providing them with a unique opportunity to grow and develop as athletes, whilst gaining an academic qualification that will support them longer term with their future careers. We can’t wait to welcome a new cohort of players onto the programme.”

Students will spend time in Scarborough training and playing at SFS’s home, the impressive Flamingo Land Stadium and at UCBB’s Bishop Burton campus, just outside Beverley. Both locations provide access to a wealth of incredible facilities including UCBB’s Human Performance Laboratory and students will play every day in the stadium facility, working with SFS highly qualified coaching team, many of whom are former professional players. A key highlight of the programme for students will be the opportunity to play in front of professional scouts, providing them with insight into what it's like to play at an advanced level.

Debbie Jensen, Assistant Principal Higher Education at Bishop Burton said “This collaboration is a fantastic development for UCBB. Working with SFS to introduce the playing element of the qualification represents a fresh and exciting approach to Sports education at degree level. Students will be able to enjoy a truly immersive experience training, working and studying alongside like-minded players who share the same passion.”

UCBB is currently accepting applications for their degree programmes through UCAS and runs a wide range of degree programmes in Sport and Exercise Science.