News: Rotherham United sign up apprentices

Young people in Rotherham now have an even better chance of a successful career in sports, thanks to a new apprenticeship scheme that has been set up at the Millers' Community Sports Trust.

The initial £150,000 funding provided by the Football Foundation and £50,000 from the Learning and Skills Council has been "match funded" by £50,000 provided by Rotherham's "One Town, One Community" initiative, which promotes values of unity and acceptance, as well as celebrating diversity.

The funding will pay for ten apprentices from across the borough who will represent the diverse population of Rotherham, as well as an Education Officer to recruit and train them.

The Education Officer will work with the apprentices for three years towards a nationally recognised sports coaching qualification, which will be carried out in a purpose built learning environment at Mangham House in Rotherham.

Millers' head of community Dale Spiby said: "In funding this post, both the Football Foundation and "One Town, One Community" have shown they see the same massive potential in Rotherham's young people as Rotherham United do.

"This important work will change the lives of the individuals involved and give them a platform to develop into sports coaches where they can aspire to work at a national or international level."

Cllr Mahroof Hussain, Cabinet Member for Community Development & Engagement, added: "We are pleased to be able to support this initiative, which will make a huge difference to the number of young people who can enter sports-related roles in Rotherham.

"Sport helps to bring people together to overcome barriers and create a feeling of one town one community and we are really excited about watching this scheme develop over the next three years."

Rotherham United Community Sports Trust website

Images: One Town, One Community