The Wakes have teamed up with the Castle College in Nottingham to give youngsters the opportunity of becoming a full-time footballer while gaining nationally recognised sport and leisure qualifications at the same time.

The partnership has been set up by the Wakes’ new managerial team of Neil Thorpe, Mark Cook and John Chand who hailed the link as a ‘real feather in the cap’ for the United Counties League Premier Division club.

Chand explained: “It is a very exciting scheme which is being backed by the Premier League.

“It will be a one-year full-time course that will mean youngsters will train and study at the club while playing games for a new Under 19 full-time team on a Wednesday afternoon.

“Players will also have the chance to progress into our senior teams at the club while showcasing their talents during the Under 19 league matches.

“They will also be studying towards a nationally recognised qualification so, at the end of the year, there will be many more options available than when anyone started.

“The qualifications may secure employment in the football and leisure industry or give the opportunity to progress onto further courses for higher education.

“It is a first for Bourne Town and a real feather in the cap for the club.

“It is another sign of how we want to take the club forward.”

The team will be playing each week in the British Colleges Sport League and training will be taken by a full-time UEFA qualified coach.

There will be opportunites during the course to gain an industry-recognised NVQ, the FA level one coaching certificate and an award in exercise and fitness.

Further opportunities include the FA level two coaching certificate, the FA coaching disabled footballers course and the FA level one futsal course.

There is also the possibility of being put in touch with companies who specialise in football scholarships in America.

Anyone interested in the scheme or wanting further information should e-mail btfc@ btconnect.com