League Football Education (LFE) is delighted to announce it has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, following an inspection in February.

In the report published today, LFE was judged to be ‘Outstanding’ in all areas, with inspectors stating that learners and apprentices “consistently demonstrate extremely positive attitudes towards their learning,” adding “they are highly enthusiastic and motivated to achieve” in what was described as a “calm and focused environment for learning.”

Established in 2004 by the EFL and the PFA, LFE delivers the Apprenticeship Programme to 16-18-year-olds at EFL Clubs and places a focus on a player’s on and off the pitch development as it aims to leave them in the best possible position for their future, whether that be in the professional game or outside it.

LFE works with 64 of the EFL’s Clubs to deliver the Level 3 Sporting Excellence Professional Apprenticeship Standard to 1,184 apprentices, as well as partnering with 13 EFL Club Community Trusts to provide the Level 3 Sports Coaching and Development programme to nearly 600 16-18-year-olds.

The educational programme has been specifically designed for elite athletes and is geared towards nationally recognised qualifications and consists of the following elements:

  • Sporting Excellence (Level 3)
  • BTEC Sporting Excellence and Performance (Level 3) *
  • Functional Skills (Level 2)
  • Certificate in Coaching (UEFA C)

Personal development and life skills are also a key focus, covering topics such as mental health and wellbeing, equality and diversity, finance, and social media.

LFE’s transition expertise was also highlighted with Ofsted noting the “learners and apprentices receive high quality specialised careers advice and guidance,” which  inspectors said “prepares them extremely well for their futures” allowing them to “make informed decisions about their next steps.”

There are numerous examples of players who have left the game who have gone on to be very successful in a wide variety of industries, utilising many of the skills learned during their apprenticeship.

  • George Barmby, ex-Scunthorpe United, now a Pain Management Practitioner
  • Oliver Smith, ex-York City, now an Airline Pilot
  • Lewis West, ex-Millwall, now a Network Rail Engineer
  • Drew Ricketts, ex-Oxford United, now a Firefighter and recipient of a Pride of Britain nomination

Inspectors also found learners and apprentices “develop high levels of confidence and resilience” adding that “many learners and apprentices progress to higher levels of study at university.”

LFE Chief Executive, Sarah Stephen, said: “Once again, we are extremely proud that Ofsted have rated us ‘Outstanding’ in all areas, an achievement that confirms all our staff and stakeholders are committed to providing outstanding, tailored education programmes for all young people and go above and beyond in everything we do.”