Where skills match ambition
Welcome to the Oxford United Advanced Football Programme; a new course that allows you to study full time for a sports qualification with Abingdon & Witney College whilst training with Oxford United.
This full-time programme – which will be open to female and male students aged 16-18 on 31st August 2024 – provides you with the opportunity to develop your professional skills, knowledge and behaviours whilst studying an industry recognised sports qualification and further developing your footballing proficiency.
You’ll study at our Abingdon Campus, and train directly with Oxford United UEFA B qualified coaches. Through this unique programme you’ll also have direct access to Oxford United’s Bangkok Glass Training Ground; part of the £4.9m sports complex near Horspath. Here you will train and compete in a competitive league and cup tournaments against other teams across the region whilst representing Abingdon & Witney College and Oxford United.
Together, our academic tutors and Oxford United’s coaches will develop you mentally and physically. We’ll teach you the determination and resilience you need to succeed, all whilst building the strength and confidence you need to be at the top of your game.
Peace of mind to focus on being your best
First and foremost, the Oxford United Advanced Football Programme recognises the importance of your academic development. Through this new partnership talented and aspiring players won’t have to pick between football and academic development; you can do both.
When you’re not training at the club, our specialist team will be there to help you prepare for your future career. This new study programme includes a sports based vocational qualification, GCSE English and/or maths as required, a supportive tutorial programme, work experience, and enrichment activities.
Outside of your studies you’ll have access to our full college experience. Immerse yourself in our student life, take part in our college wide trips and make the most of our pastoral care and guidance. Throughout your time at Abingdon & Witney College, we’ll be there by your side as you embark on this unique journey.
Stevie Kinniburgh from Oxford United, introduces the new Advanced Football Programme, and we hear from George Crowley from Abingdon & Witney College on the application process. The programme is now also taking applications from female players.
Applications for the 2024 Oxford United Advanced Football Programme are open. Please see information below to apply.
What's in it for you
- A Level 2 or Level 3 sports based vocational qualification depending on entry grades
- Regular training at Oxford United’s Bangkok Glass Training Ground with UEFA B qualified coaches
- An Oxford United season ticket
- Participation in a competitive league and cup tournaments
- Oxford United training kit for matches.
Ready to show what you can do? Come to our trials
We expect places on this exciting programme to be competitive.
Apply now to secure your place at the next football trial, where you will have a chance to show off your skills and meet the Oxford United and College teams. The next Trial will be for both the men and women's teams, we expect to announce the date as soon as Oxford United have confirmed it.
A Taster Day is being arranged for the 10th July where we are inviting anyone interested in joining the programme to come along and find out more about how the link with Oxford United works. The venue will be Oxford United’s Bangkok Glass Training Complex OX4 2RY.
About Abingdon & Witney College
Abingdon & Witney College is an award-winning further education provider in Oxfordshire; located across four main sites in Abingdon, Bicester, Witney and Common Leys Farm near Hailey.
We are proud to offer a wide range of full time vocational courses, apprenticeships, higher education and adult learning courses.
Our vision is to be a college where everyone achieves more than they believe possible. We are ambitious for our students, staff, community and partner organisations.
Together we can achieve the extraordinary.
Employers we work with
We're proud to work with leading local organisations across Oxfordshire.
From small and medium sized businesses to large companies, we value working with like-minded organisations who share our values.
Award winning provision
We have been recognised nationally for the quality of our courses and teaching by a number of professional bodies. We have been awarded six Beacon Awards from the Association of Colleges; the equivalent of the Oscars in the Further Education sector.
In 2021, we were awarded Pearson BTEC College of the Year in and we are proud to be winners of Lee Stafford Education's College and Student of the Year awards.
Future Opportunities
We’re proud to partner with Oxford United and this new programme will be our second collaboration, as we already have a community programme running with Oxford United for adults with learning disabilities.
We’re planning to launch a female programme and further develop our inclusive football provision.
