Situated in the heart of Grimsby, UK, Franklin Sixth Form College is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to providing exceptional academic and vocational education for students aged 16-19. With a focus on the holistic development of students, the college offers a diverse range of courses that cater to varied academic interests and career aspirations. Franklin is a place where academic excellence meets real-world applications, making it an ideal environment for ambitious students looking to excel both in their studies and in their future careers.
In partnership with the Grimsby Town Sports and Education Trust, Franklin Sixth Form College has become a central force in the education of young athletes through programs such as the GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship. This partnership highlights the college’s commitment to innovative educational pathways, combining rigorous academics with elite athletic training. Through these initiatives, Franklin has established itself as a forward-thinking institution, equipping students with the knowledge, skills and experiences necessary to succeed in higher education, professional sports or a wide range of careers.
Description of the scholarship:
- Host university: Sixth grade Franklin Middle School;
- Host country: United Kingdom;
- Level of study: Undergraduate level;
- Type of scholarship: Partial financing;
- Scholarship value: Check the details below;
- Eligible countries: International students;
- Available topics: Sports science;
- Application deadline: The stock market is open.
The GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship is designed for talented young football players aged 16-18 who have a passion for the game and aspire to build a future in the sports sector. The program offers an exceptional blend of football training, competitive play and academic activities, equipping students with skills that will benefit them whether they wish to play professionally or work in the sports industry. Participants train under experienced coaches at Grimsby Town and attend courses at Franklin Sixth Form College, where they pursue a BTEC Level 3 sports qualification.
The program not only emphasizes athletic development but also academic growth. Through the courses, students delve deeper into essential topics such as anatomy, physical fitness, professional development and sports leadership. This comprehensive training provides a comprehensive foundation, allowing participants to hone their sporting abilities while developing the academic skills necessary for higher education or employment in the sports sector.
The GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship has achieved impressive success rates and notable milestones since its inception, including:
- Twelve National League and U19 Futsal Cup titles
- Two regional championships of the U19 Football League
- More than 115 graduates since 2014
- 100% college admission rate for students earning their top-choice institutions
Scholarship Benefits
The GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship offers many benefits that set it apart from other programs. Here are some key benefits:
- Vocational training
Participants receive high-quality soccer training up to four times per week, focusing on skill development, strength and conditioning, and strategic play. This training prepares students for high-level competitions and a potential future in professional football. - Competitive matches
Scholars participate in the EFL Community & Education Football Alliance (CEFA), competing against shadow teams from other professional clubs, providing a competitive environment to hone their skills. - Educational paths
Students study for a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, equivalent to three A Levels, which can open the way to university admission or employment in the sports industry. - Experienced coaching
The program’s coaching staff, including notable figures like Scott Drury and Mark Westerby, bring years of experience and a strong track record of success. Their mentorship and personalized coaching techniques help each player reach their full potential. - Career development opportunities
With a focus on sports and studies, participants have the opportunity to choose between continuing their sports studies or aiming for a career as a professional footballer. - Special opportunities for female footballers
With the launch of the GTFC Girls U19 Football Shadow Scholarship in 2024, young women with a passion for football now have a way to pursue their goals, with tailored training and competition opportunities within CEFA.
Eligibility requirements
To be considered for the GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria that ensure their suitability for this demanding program. Here are the eligibility conditions:
- Age requirement
Applicants must be between 16 and 18 years old to benefit from the scholarship. - Football talent and commitment
Applicants must demonstrate exceptional talent and commitment to football. The program seeks dedicated players who demonstrate a passion for the sport and a drive to succeed both on the field and in their studies. - Academic and athletic dedication
Students must effectively balance their academic and athletic responsibilities, as the program involves regular training and competitive play alongside a rigorous academic schedule. - Academic component
As part of the scholarship, students must commit to studying for a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, which covers critical topics such as anatomy, physiology, sports leadership and fitness training. - Regular training and competition
Scholars are required to attend training sessions three to four times a week and participate in CEFA competitions against other professional club shadow teams. This aspect of the program is essential for the holistic development of students.
Application process
The application process for the GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship is simple but competitive, given the popularity of the program and limited places. Here are the steps to follow to apply:
- Complete the online application
Interested candidates can start by visiting the official Franklin Sixth Form College portal, where the online application form is available. This form collects essential details including academic background, football experience and career aspirations. - Submit a football profile
Applicants may be required to provide a football profile, detailing their previous playing experience, achievements and highlights. Videos of past performances, if available, can strengthen the application and give coaches an idea of the candidate’s abilities. - Participate in an assessment day
Selected candidates are invited to an assessment day including essays and skills assessments. This in-person evaluation allows the coaching staff to observe candidates’ football skills and evaluate their potential fit for the program. - Interview with program directors
Shortlisted applicants can also interview with scholarship program directors, including coaches like Scott Drury and Mark Westerby. This interview helps the selection team understand the candidate’s commitment, motivations and objectives. - Receive the admission decision
Successful applicants will receive an offer letter outlining the details of their acceptance into the GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship. Accepted students must confirm their registration and prepare for the start of the program, generally organized at the beginning of the academic year.
Official website:
For more information, please visit the official university website: https://www.franklin.ac.uk/experience-franklin/gtfc-football-shadow-scholarship/
