Plymouth Parkway Football Club & Discovery College Plymouth Launch New Scholarship Programme for Young People

A new scholarship programme for young people with a passion for football is set to begin in Plymouth this September. Plymouth Parkway and Discovery College have joined forces to create the exciting new initiative for 16 to 19-year-olds and are now accepting applications for those considering their post-16 options.

The new initiative combines elite football training from Parkway along with the opportunity to achieve a Level 2 and 3 BTEC in Sport through Discovery College, based at YMCA Plymouth. The programme offers young athletes a clear pathway to both academic and athletic success.

Starting in September 2025, the programme will give students the chance to train with UEFA-qualified coaches, compete in national college leagues, whilst studying a full-time BTEC qualification that offers them a variety of career pathways.

Lee Peacock, Head of Youth Development at Plymouth Parkway said: “Our collaboration with Discovery College Plymouth brings together the best of both worlds – top-level football coaching and a solid academic foundation,” said “This programme is not just about football; it’s about developing young people who are ready to excel in every area of life.”

Discovery College has delivered a popular BTEC Sport programme for over 10 Years, with its alumni going on to achieve careers ranging from sports journalism to coaching roles in the USA and professional athletes at international level. Parkway’s own youth development success can be seen most recently 20-year-old Striker Dylan Jones, a product of their youth system, who signed for Championship side Norwich City this year.

Joe Stephenson, Head of Discovery College said: “This new partnership is great news for young people in the city who are enthusiastic about football and are keen to make a career out of it. Working alongside Parkway offers them real opportunity to pursue a professional career; but irrespective of whether they succeed in that pathway, they’ll still develop the skills and knowledge to succeed in a whole range of careers within the sports sector.”

“It’s never too late to apply or change your mind, so if you’re interested, please do get in touch with us, we’d be happy to arrange a visit to the college for anyone that is thinking of applying for this September.”

The Parkway Scholarship Programme Offers:

• Professional-Level Football Coaching: From UEFA-qualified coaches with experience at top levels
• Level 3 BTEC in Sport: A full-time qualification that opens doors to university or careers in sports management, coaching, fitness, and more
• Coaching & Career Development: Gain industry-recognized coaching badges and explore various career paths in the sports world
• Support from Discovery College Plymouth: Academic tutoring, career guidance, and the flexibility to tailor your learning experience

Applications are now open for students who wish to begin the programme in September 2025. Students aged between 16 and 19 with a passion for both football and education are encouraged to apply.

To learn more visit: https://discoverycollege.co.uk/courses/sport/parkway-scho/