Holbeach United Community Sports Academy can double in size after classroom plan approved

An education centre will be able to double in size after classroom plans were approved.

Holbeach United Community Sports Academy have been given the green light to expand their Penny Hill Road site ahead of September’s new intake.

“We're over the moon,” said the CSA’s Rob Bell.

“We stared the college last year with 20 lads and it’s going to double in size this year. That was dependent on the plans being passed.

“It’ll be fantastic, nearly 50 kids attending the college.”

Plans for a classroom block comprising additional toilets, canteen and three classroom areas were passed by South Holland District Council, which will allow the Tigers to add a second year group and also look to run a university-level course.

Rob says the courses – which can offer a gateway to further education or offer youngsters of both sexes a first step into careers in sport, physiotherapy or even refereeing – on offer will suit football-mad youngsters, as well as students who are more practically minded.

“It’s really good, especially for the kids who don’t like the pressure of exams,” he said.

“It’s a BTEC level three course and if they do well on it it gives them as many UCAS points as they would achieve on A-levels, but with coursework and not having to do exams.”

The link up with Holbeach United saw scholars progress to the Tigers’ senior teams last season while youngsters can compete in the Academy League’s East Midlands Football Championships.

“It can be footballers of all abilities as there’s plenty of routes young men and women can go into,” Rob added.

“It provides more options for Holbeach and local areas.”

Anyone interested in the courses can enrol up until September and further information is available by calling 07957140 863 or emailing callum@holbeachunityedacademy.com.