Work on new sports education centre in Holbeach is moving on rapidly
Work to create a new block at a sports-based education centre are moving rapidly ahead of this year’s new intake.
Plans to create two new classrooms, gym and office space at Holbeach United Community Sports Academy’s Penny Hill Road complex were recently approved by South Holland District Council.
And the Tigers’ set-up has wasted no time in getting up and running, offering this paper a sneak peek of what youngsters can expect when they arrive on site in September.
Gym equipment is in place and can be used as part of strength and conditioning training by the scholars, while it is hoped to eventually open the facility up to others associated with the club.
The finishing touches are also being put to the two classrooms, which will soon have interactive screens up on the walls.
Bell Formwork, KDH Projects, AH Worth, Naylor Farms and Chosen have all offered backing to the new block.
This project will allow the learning centre to double the number of students on site from last year’s inaugural intake, catering for up to 50 scholars aged between 16-19.
A university course will also be run from the site for students working at the venue and also remotely.
“This will make the partnership between the grassroots club and Holbeach United Education Academy even stronger,” said co-director Callum Lawe, hoping the project can offer kids as young as four currently taking part in Tiny Tiger training a pathway through the club and into education.”
Meanwhile, the university course – which can set young men and women on their way to numerous careers within sport – will be catered to students’ needs.
A one year programme awards an HNC qualification, a two-year programme can result in an HND. Those enrolling in a three-year course will be working towards a BSC Hons degree.
“The university course is unique,” co-director Dan Lester explained.
“It can be 100% on site or 100% remote.
“You can be travelling and still do the course or you can be local and decide you want to come in every day or one day a week.
“This degree offers you real-life experience. You can leave with a qualification and the work experience and be ready to go straight into a job.”
As well as qualifications that can set youngsters aged 16-plus on the path to careers in sport there will also be opportunities to play matches, making use of the adjacent 3G pitch which caters for around 400 people involved with United and other clubs and groups.
An under 23s team is being planned while youngsters on the college progamme can also compete in National Youth League matches against the likes of Leeds United, the Steven Gerrard Academy, Chesterfield, Solihull Moors and Boston United.
Anyone interested in the courses can still enrol and further information is available by calling 07957140 863 or emailing callum@holbeachunityedacademy.com.