Inspiring the next generation of sport and fitness professionals

Oldham Active and Oldham College have developed an innovative Workforce Academy, designed to bridge the gap between education and employment. It offers sports and fitness students from Oldham College the opportunity to gain work experience through structured placements alongside industry-specific qualifications.

With similarities to an apprenticeship model, the students divide their time between college-based learning and practical experience on site. The Workforce Academy welcomed its first cohort of 12 students earlier this year, with the programme expanding from the new academic term in September 2026.

Pathway into employment

Steve Ferriss, Sport Development Officer at Oldham Active, says: “At a time when youth unemployment nationally has hit an 11-year high, our Workforce Academy creates a crucial, clear pathway into employment. The students, who are aged 16 to 18, are given the flexibility to explore different roles within the health and wellbeing sector, be that working at one of our leisure centres or out in the community. Upon successful completion of their qualifications, they will have the opportunity to transition into paid positions, allowing us to future-proof Oldham Active’s workforce.

“A career in leisure is incredibly varied and rewarding, giving people the chance to help our community live better every day, while offering the purpose and impact this younger generation is looking for in a career. We’ve loved having the Oldham College students as part of our team, watching them learn and develop keys skills whilst carving out their future career. We are excited to welcome more students at the start of the Autumn term.”

Workforce Academy Student

Josh, 16, who is currently studying for his Sports Coach Level 3 qualification at Oldham College explains: “I’m really enjoying being part of the Workforce Academy and have been gaining valuable experience, helping the Oldham Active team to deliver community sports programmes at local schools. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain real-life coaching experience alongside my qualifications, which will definitely benefit my planned future career as a sports coach, and make me more desirable to future employers.”

Dominic Pates, Programme Tutor, Sport & Academies, Oldham College says: “It’s fantastic to see this partnership between Oldham College and Oldham Active officially come to life after several years of planning. Through the Workforce Academy, our learners will gain valuable, real-world experience in sport development and fitness, helping them build the skills, confidence and industry knowledge needed for successful careers.”