CRAVEN College is forming a prestigious link-up with Leeds United Football Club.

The college - which takes students from around the Aire Valley, Wharfedale, Craven and East Lancashire - will become a Leeds United Sports Hub and is recruiting students for the first teaching in September 2019.

A VIP guest from the club will attend the official launch at Craven College's Aireville Campus in Skipton on Tuesday, April 2, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

The highlight of the evening will be participating in a training session led by the club, along with a gym and classroom taster to give a real flavour of what’s in store.

The club's Director of Education, Spencer Taylor, said ‘This particular partnership is really exciting. It allows us as Leeds United Football Club to reach out into the wider community using the power of sport to help students progress through educational pathways.

"We’re proud to welcome Craven College as our inaugural Sports Hub, and aim to provide their students with a unique experience during their studies."

Andrew Cropley, Principal of Craven College, said: "The value of this programme for our students is enormous.

"We have completely overhauled our Sports courses and are delighted to be working with LUFC who bring real professionalism as well as huge excitement. This joint venture makes our curriculum unique in the area."

The partnership means that the students will be trained by specialist sports coaches from LUFC, they will have access to work experience opportunities at a the promotion-chasing Championship club, and visits to the club's Elland Road stadium to access the fitness training suite, the strength and conditioning unit and a stadium tour.

Guest speakers from the club will ensure that they have the most up to date information at their fingertips on psychology, nutrition and fitness.

Head of School Angela Jordan said: "We have also looked really closely at the opportunities for students after the course.

"University will always be an option for the majority of Level 3 students, but the additional qualifications - for example fitness instruction - are a real advantage for students who want to get a job after completing the course."

Sport student Ollie White, from Skipton, said: "I am most excited about getting an insight into a professional programme and learning from highly experienced coaches. It’s a brilliant opportunity for us all."

Student Brandon Chawira, from Keighley, said: "I’m really excited about the work experience opportunities which we will be open to us. It’s going to be great to find out what it’s like to work in a professional sports environment like Leeds United."

For more information about the official launch and course, visit craven-college.ac.uk/event/lufc-sports-hub-launch, or ring Central Admissions on 01756 693881.