A GROUP of staff from the Football Association, including former professional players, have graduated from the University of Worcester with a postgraduate qualification.

Ten members of staff form the first cohort of graduates following a partnership between the University and the FA to enhance coaching skills.

The Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) in Sports Coaching is delivered at St George’s Park, the national football centre, by university staff.

The FA staff undertook three modules of work, including coaching philosophy and practice, leading and managing in sport, and professional placement, which comprised a specific FA project.

The first cohort to graduate include former professional footballer, Chris Morris, Tony McCallum, National Coach Development Manager at the FA, Regional Coach Development Managers, Jack Walton, Mark Leigh and Keith Webb, and the FA’s Regional Coach Mentor Officers – Graeme Carrick (North East), Steve Smithies (North West), Samantha Griffiths (East Midlands), Darren Moss (East), Kevin Green (London/ Armed Forces/ Jersey/ Guernsey).

A further 12 FA staff are now part way through their studies and will graduate next year.

Dr Andy Cale, from the University of Worcester, who delivers the programme, said: “We are delighted to see our first cohort of graduates from this partnership. The FA are to be congratulated on their ongoing support for the professional development of its senior staff both in terms of coach development and personal growth.

"This cohort have brought a fantastic depth of personal experience and have applied academic theory to their daily practice.

“They have developed the ability to professionally reflect and question key areas that underpin successful coach education and development. They have been great students who have demonstrated a passion for learning and a genuine commitment to their continuous professional development.”

Les Howie, The FA’s head of grassroots coaching, added: “I’d like to congratulate all graduates on a fantastic achievement.

“Continuous development is very important and we want to ensure our staff are at the cutting edge of learning to help them in their roles of supporting and developing grassroots coaches – this link up with the University of Worcester is crucial to that.

“We have a fantastic partnership with the university and look forward to working together with the next cohort.”