Training and Education Centre to Launch at York’s LNER Community Stadium

A pioneering training and education centre is set to launch in September 2025 within the dynamic and inspiring learning environment of the City of York Council’s LNER Community Stadium.

This groundbreaking community education program has been designed to provide structured learning, qualifications and behind-the-scenes, practical experience for students and community members aspiring to work in both operational and business activities within sports clubs.

Whilst the Stadium already provides leisure, sport and health care facilities, the creation of a dedicated education & training centre adds another dimension for the benefit of the local community. The centre will provide opportunities for students pursuing non-playing roles within the sports industry while also offering a broader Adult Education program aimed at enhancing sports club management generally. By bridging the gap between education and employment, the centre aims to shape the next generation of sports professionals and community leaders.

Students who enrol on one of the Pearson BTEC Level 3, 2-year Sport pathways will also gain an invaluable insight into the behind-the-scenes operations of sports clubs through bespoke additional modules, using the LNER Community Stadium’s unique configuration as a working template for the content of case studies. These modules cover a wide range of practical learning across commercial, operational, and business activities within sports clubs – as well as offering more general employability skills and qualifications that will enhance the credentials of any CV, equipping students with invaluable credentials and experience to transition seamlessly into paid employment within the industry.

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of this initiative is the introduction of a ‘rewards-based learning’ system. Students who successfully complete the additional sport and employability modules will unlock exclusive opportunities, including match-day tickets, gym memberships and even paid work placements – all designed to enhance their learning experience while immersing them in real-world sports environments.

The training on offer will also extend to Adult learners. Bespoke training programs will provide essential awareness, knowledge and practical guidance for volunteer Boards, Committees, and individuals responsible for managing clubs across a broad variety of sports within the local community. They will also serve as a vital source of information for parents, career advisors and those interested in understanding the inner workings of the sports industry.

York Stadium Management Company’s Executive Director, Martin Jesper, explains both the concept and enthusiasm behind the initiative: “We have been exploring the potential to create an education and learning centre for almost two years, specifically focusing on non-playing, behind-the-scenes careers within sports clubs. The response from local sports clubs, businesses and community partners has been overwhelmingly positive and, without exception, the individuals we have spoken to are aware of friends, family or colleagues who would immediately enjoy and benefit from the content of the courses, the bespoke modules and the rewards-based incentives.

“Many have pledged their support, not only in promoting the centre but also in providing practical content and delivery for the bespoke modules. The nuances within both elite and grassroot sport clubs often don’t fit with mainstream business thinking, so we have been keen to provide a robust platform of learning that ensures people are fully prepared for the practical realities of working within sport in either a full-time or volunteer capacity.”

Further reinforcing the educational credibility of the program is the recruitment of a Head of Education with 20+ years’ experience in designing and delivering the BTEC courses on offer and also working with Premier League clubs, ensuring that students receive top-tier guidance, instruction and welfare.

Students, parents, sports clubs and businesses eager to learn more about these innovative qualifications, career-building opportunities and rewards-based incentives are encouraged to register their interest by email at [email protected] or online via yorksmc.co.uk/education. Students, parents, local businesses and sports clubs will then be invited to an exclusive open day (dates to be advised) which will include a behind-the-scenes tour of the LNER Community Stadium along with an overview of how the stadium operates on both match and non-match days.

Join us in transforming the future of sports education and learning.