Pharrell’s Playbook: Building Skills On and Off the Pitch

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Pharrell, a 19-year-old from South London, has always shown initiative in seeking out opportunities to grow—especially in football.

In 2024, he self-referred to Selhurst Park and began a journey of personal and professional development that would shape his future. While he had always been driven, Pharrell struggled with confidence. Through his involvement in several programmes, he not only built valuable skills but also found his voice.

In February 2024, Pharrell joined the ‘Skills for Coaching’ programme, delivered in partnership with the Street Soccer Foundation. This course was designed to support young people interested in football coaching, offering training in sports leadership while also promoting physical and mental well-being. For Pharrell, it was a turning point. He developed coaching skills, built confidence, and began to see himself as a leader.

His growth continued in April 2024, when he was selected to take part in an international exchange programme with Sport Dans La Ville. Alongside other young participants from Palace for Life Foundation, Pharrell spent 10 days in the South of France. The experience gave him a broader perspective, strengthened his confidence, and deepened his sense of global responsibility.

Pharrell also enrolled in the Training Ground 1-2-1 Mentoring Programme with Palace for Life Foundation. Working closely with a mentor, he refined his CV, crafted a tailored cover letter, and prepared for job applications. He took part in wellbeing and leadership sessions to strengthen his mindset and participated in mock interviews to sharpen his communication skills and receive constructive feedback.

EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of  contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

The results speak for themselves. Pharrell secured a role with Reaching Higher, a youth charity, as an Advanced Sessional Worker. His development was further recognised when he was hired as a Premier League Kicks Coach for the West Ham United Foundation. These achievements reflect not only his hard work but also the impact of the support he received through the Training Ground programme.

He said: “It’s been wonderful! I’ve met so many great people, so many great coaches who helped me so much in my development. Helped me to be more confident, more myself and a different way to connect…”

To find out more about your nearest Training Ground programme,  please contact your local Club using the list below.

    * Please Choose Your Club

    Krishan’s Leap: From Self-Doubt to Self-Belief

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    Krishan Patel, an 18-year-old from Waltham Forest, grew up in a supportive family and successfully completed his college studies. He had secured a place at university, but as the start date approached, he began to doubt whether he was ready. Unsure of how he would navigate university life, Krishan made the difficult decision not to attend. This left him feeling uncertain about his future and questioning whether he could succeed without a degree.

    Despite his positive attitude and eagerness to learn, Krishan struggled with self-doubt and a lack of direction. With limited job experience and no clear career path, his confidence began to fade. He found it difficult to stay motivated and started to feel that his options were limited. While he was socially engaged and valued teamwork, professional settings—especially interviews—felt intimidating.

    Krishan joined Leyton Orient Trust’s Training Ground Programme as part of the first group of participants. From the beginning, he was an active and engaged member of the group, quickly becoming a key contributor. The programme focused on building essential employability skills to help young people transition into the workforce. Krishan took part in sessions on CV writing, interview techniques, workplace behaviours, and career awareness.

    EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

    Throughout the programme, Krishan’s confidence grew. He supported his peers, contributed to group discussions, and helped create a positive and inclusive learning environment. His transformation was clear—not only in his skills but in his mindset.

    Since completing the programme, Krishan has successfully secured employment, taking his first step into the workforce. He continues to stay in touch with programme staff, seeking guidance and building on the relationships he formed. Most importantly, he now approaches interviews with confidence and has developed a strong sense of self-belief. He’s realised that university isn’t the only path to success—and that with the right support and mindset, there are many ways to build a meaningful career.

    Krishan said: “I loved how much support the team gave me, even when I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. They showed me that my opportunities aren’t limited and that there are lots of different paths I can take.”

    To find out more about your nearest Training Ground programme,  please contact your local Club using the list below.

      * Please Choose Your Club

      Kiran’s Breakthrough: How Training Ground Opened the Door to Employment

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      Born and raised in London, 21-year-old Kiran is a passionate Arsenal fan with a strong desire to build a better future for himself. After completing voluntary work in his local area, Kiran was eager to take the next step into paid employment. That’s when he was referred to Arsenal in the Community’s Training Ground programme.

      At first, Kiran was quiet and reserved. He lacked a bit of confidence and often kept to himself. But after just a few sessions, he began to come out of his shell. He made new friends, actively joined discussions, and started volunteering for tasks. His transformation was clear—he was ready to grow.

      EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of  contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

      Kiran attended every employability workshop, where he practised interview techniques, developed his communication and teamwork skills, and built his confidence. He also earned a Food Hygiene Certificate, giving him a valuable qualification for the hospitality sector. With the support of Employment Coordinator Jeet Chagar, Kiran began applying for jobs—and successfully secured a role with Delaware North, working as part of the catering team on match days.

      He explained: “I’m really enjoying my new role. Without the support and guidance I got from Training Ground, I honestly don’t think I would’ve got this job. Jeet taught me so much and gave me the confidence I needed to thrive at Delaware North. I feel a sense of belonging here. I’ve told my friends about the programme too and I hope they can have the same experience as me.”

      Kiran has embraced his new role with confidence. He’s settled in well, is learning quickly, and enjoys being part of a team. His journey is a powerful example of how the right support can unlock potential and lead to meaningful employment.

      Jeet said: “Kiran became a key member of his cohort, always encouraging other participants’ learning. He never lacks enthusiasm and was eager to learn and progress. Creating a positive atmosphere comes naturally to Kiran and I can see him heading towards a Team Leader role in the future.”

      To find out more about your nearest Training Ground programme,  please contact your local Club using the list below.

        * Please Choose Your Club

        Framing Her Future: Charlotte’s Steps Toward a Photography Career

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        Charlotte, 19, lives with her mum, for whom she is a carer, and her brother. A passionate aspiring photographer, Charlotte spends her free time capturing images of her cats and experimenting with concert photography. While her love for photography was clear, she wasn’t sure how to turn it into a career.

        When Charlotte joined the Training Ground programme in November, she felt uncertain about her future. She had ideas but no clear direction, and financial barriers made it difficult to pursue formal training. At first, she lacked confidence and wasn’t sure if the programme would help. But over six weekly sessions, everything began to change.

        EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of  contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

        Through setting and achieving weekly goals, Charlotte’s confidence grew. She began to take real steps toward her dream. She launched a Facebook business page to showcase her work, joined online photography forums to connect with professionals, and started building a portfolio. Her dedication paid off when she received her first photo shoot request—capturing portraits of pets for a local resident who discovered her work online.

        Charlotte is now preparing to volunteer as a photographer for the AFC Wimbledon Foundation, where she’ll take photos at events. This opportunity has expanded her portfolio to include sports photography, alongside her work with animals and concerts.

        “When I first joined the Training Ground programme in November, I was unsure how to pursue a career in photography,” Charlotte shared. “Each week my confidence grew as I achieved new milestones. I launched a Facebook business page, joined photography forums, and even got my first photo shoot request. Now, I’m about to start volunteering at AFC Wimbledon Foundation. I can now add sports to my portfolio.”

        To find out more about your nearest Training Ground programme,  please contact your local Club using the list below.

          * Please Choose Your Club

          Training Ground with Leyton Orient Trust helps Ethan ‘find his purpose.’

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          Prior to enrolling on the Training Ground programme with Leyton Orient Trust, Ethan faced numerous difficulties including mental health and a lack of opportunity.

          Ethan experienced low motivation and confidence which left him struggling to find his why in every day. This led him to quit playing football, the one thing Ethan was deeply passionate about.

          However, the Training Ground programme gave him the support, skills and confidence to feel more at ease with his chances of going into employment once he has finished his studies.

          EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

          Throughout the course Ethan actively engaged with specific activities being a highlight including volunteering with coaches and the CV workshop.

          Since completing the course, Ethan has seen a remarkable shift in his life. He now studies at college on a course he loves and can manage his mental health. As well as this, Ethan is now back and enjoying football once more, whilst actively looking for a part time job.

          Ethan states: “I have found purpose in my life.”

          Bailey, Thomas and Harrison’s journey from BTEC to employment at Rotherham Community Trust

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          Bailey Finney, Thomas Burden, and Harrison Spiller are just some examples of the incredible progression opportunities available at Rotherham United Sports College. Having started their journey on the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma, they have successfully progressed into Higher Education, studying a Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching & Development in parntership with the University of South Wales.

          The University of South Wales allows students to gain practical experience in their desired nature of work, whilst allowing for a blended learning approach where students have both face-to face and online learning. The courses which are hosted at your local football club has a huge emphasis on gaining real world learning through placements with students only having to attend the University for short residential periods.

          Throughout their studies, Bailey, Thomas, and Harrison have developed an in-depth understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a sports coach. They have gained valuable experience in planning, delivering, and reviewing coaching sessions, building both their knowledge and practical skillsets.

          Their hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. All three students have recently secured casual employment with Rotherham United Community Trust, working across the Football Development and Schools & Sports Participation teams.

          So far, their roles have included:

          • Assisting with full-day school tournaments at Sheffield Hallam Sports Park.
          • Supporting the Boys Emerging Talent Centre.
          • Specialising in coaching roles, such as Harrison’s work as a goalkeeper coach for Rotherham United Sports College football teams.

          As they continue to learn and develop, they will have the opportunity to gain additional qualifications and hours, further enhancing their career prospects within the Trust.

          James Mahoney, Education Manager at Rotherham United Sports College, praised the students’ efforts:

          “Tom, Harrison, and Bailey have earned this opportunity through their hard work and volunteering. They join a growing number of our learners who have successfully secured employment while studying with us, showcasing the progression opportunities for our students.”

          Bailey, Thomas, and Harrison’s journey highlights the strong link between education and employment at Rotherham United Sports College. By providing students with hands-on experience and clear career pathways, the College equips them with the tools to succeed both in their studies and in the workplace.

          AFC Wimbledon Foundation helps Dons fan Ben turn his dreams into reality.

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          Football and AFC Wimbledon mad, Ben, spends a lot of his time following his beloved Club and analysing their matches. This passion, devotion and knowledge of the game means Ben dreams of becoming a football coach one day.

          However, he was unsure how he would turn this enthusiasm into realistic targets and goals to enable him to build his skills and confidence in coaching.

          Ben enrolled on the Training Ground programme at his Club, to seek advice and guidance.

          EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

          Initially, Ben felt uncertain about how to navigate his path into coaching; he struggled with setting specific goals. The programme offered him valuable resources and support, helping him gain confidence in his abilities.

          Over the course of the programme, Ben’s confidence grew significantly as he learnt to set and achieve weekly goals; this structured approach has allowed him to make visible progress in his coaching journey.

          Whilst on the Training Ground programme Ben completed the FA Playmaker course supported by BT which is aimed at providing skills, guidance and tips so anyone can help create safe, fun, and inclusive football. As well as this, he also completed his FA Induction to Football, marking another important step forward in his development as a coach.

          Ben explained: “Football is my passion. The opportunity to participate in the Training Ground programme at AFC Wimbledon was like a dream come true. It has helped me to be in the place where I fit and perform best. At the start of the programme, I was unsure if I would receive help to pursue my dream of becoming a coach, as the weeks went on, everything started to change. Each week I set small goals with my mentor, and I can see real results.”

          With Ben’s love for the game and his determination to continually improve, he has begun paving the way for a successful career in the sport he loves.

          Applications for football coaching degrees at EFL Clubs hits record high!

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          Football and sports coaching degrees offered by over 40 professional Football Clubs have hit a record high in applications this year.

          The University of South Wales (USW) degree programme,  run in partnership with EFL Club Community Organisations across England and Wales, have received a record number of 355 applications for students starting in September 2024, with time still to apply.

          Across the courses offered – a Foundation Degree in Community Football Coaching and Development and a Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching and Development and BA Sports Business and Management there has been an 20 per cent increase in applications for this year compared to 2023.

          Not only has there been an increase in popularity and demand for the courses from applications but also in the success of students achieving high level grades, with over half (56%) achieving a 2.1 or better.

          USW courses started 10 years ago at three Clubs with a handful of students and has significantly grown to be delivered at 46 Clubs – with hundreds of students now benefiting.

          Even though the courses are hosted at EFL Football Clubs nationwide, it doesn’t mean that the courses are designed specifically for avid football fans.

          Leah is an example of how the USW Foundation Degree allows students to tailor their own learning and provides a pathway to excel at all levels of coaching from football to dance.

          With a promotion to School Sports Coordinator with Wigan Athletic Community Trust shortly after she graduated it’s a role she adores.

           Leah said: “I absolutely love working with children, they brighten my day with how enthusiastic they are about PE and sport.”

          The USW degree nurtured Will’s confidence and exposed him to real-world working environments with Bristol Rovers Community Trust, and took him out of his comfort zone, allowing him to grow both personally and professionally.

          The degree, that provides students with the ability to gain further qualifications alongside their studies including gaining their coaching badges, helped Will to look forward to his future.

           “I felt this differed from different educational experiences as I was able to gain work experience whilst studying,” he explained. “I was able to gain qualifications along the way and was able to work on different projects that the Trust offered to find the area of work I enjoyed the most.”

          Will has continued with Bristol Rovers Community Trust, where he is now their Head of Inclusion and Degree Mentor.

          The University of South Wales courses are popular with students as it gives them practical experience at a Football Club – very often they are fans of that club, whilst allowing for a blended and ‘real world’ learning approach where students have both face-to face and online learning.

          Students on the degree programme have numerous points of support, from club mentors to lecturers.

          Click here to find out more.

          Alfie Bakes: from a young boy attending football camps to an employee at Rotherham United Community Trust.

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          From a 10 year old aspiring footballer on Rotherham United Community Trust’s Future Stars programme to a student and employee at the Trust.

          Alfie Bakes is currently a 2nd Year Foundation Degree student at Rotherham United Community Trust , an affiliation with the Trust that started when he was just 10 years old.

          A keen footballer, Alfie joined the Trust’s ‘Future Stars’ Football Development Programme for 6 years which led him on to completing his GCSE’s and signing up to the full-time education and football programme at Rotherham United.

          Alfie studied the BTEC Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development for 2 years excelling in both education and football. His academic success saw him achieve DMM (Distinction, Merit, Merit) and his football ability and leadership skills saw him captaining the Shadow Academy squad. Whilst on the  course, Alfie captained the squad on tour in Barcelona as well as accumulating over 5o hours of work experience hours to aid his career path off the pitch.

          He is studying the ‘Sports Coaching and Development’ degree in Partnership with the University of South Wales where he continues to relish in the opportunities Rotherham United Community Trust provide him both on and off the pitch.

          The University of South Wales allows students to gain practical experience in their desired nature of work, whilst allowing for a blended learning approach where students have both face-to face and online learning. The courses which are hosted at your local football club has a huge emphasis on gaining real world learning through placements with students only having to attend the University for short residential periods.

          Alfie said: “I have loved every minute of my time at Rotherham United, firstly on the BTEC and now in Higher Education. The staff have been great with me, providing lots of opportunities in education and football. I have become a very confident person, and this is all down to the staff at Rotherham United. The learning environment and facilities could not have been any better. From my experience this is something that I would recommend to anyone.” 

          Alfie is highly thought of at Rotherham United both on his academic pathway as a student and as a member of staff.

          Education Manager James Mahoney expressed: “Alfie has been a pleasure to teach and mentor throughout his time on our Education courses. He is a hard-working, determined individual who I am sure will go on to have a very successful career. Alfie deserves all the success due to his enthusiasm for sport and education. It has been fantastic to see Alfie’ progress from a young boy attending our football camps to now been an employee at Rotherham United Community Trust.”

          Click here to find out more.

          Foundation Degree with Huddersfield Town Foundation has reignited Shay’s love for coaching.

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          Prior to enrolling onto the Foundation Degree in Community Football Coaching and Development with Huddersfield Town Foundation, Shay was reluctant to return to higher education due to previous negative experiences in a ‘mainstream’ university.

          Although initially reluctant, the leap of faith is exactly what Shay needed.

          Run in partnership with the University of South Wales, the degree allows students to gain practical experience in their desired nature of work, whilst allowing for a blended learning approach where students have both face-to face and online learning. The courses which are hosted at your local football club have a huge emphasis on gaining real world learning through work experience.

          The ability to learn from home whilst developing a one-to-one relationship with the tutor was something that really has benefited Shay, another aspect of the University of South Wales partnership that he had previously struggled with at another university.

          He explained: “Travel was a real issue on my previous course, however relocating to Huddersfield and living within 10 Minutes of the Sports Hub is beneficial. It used to take me upwards of 2 hours to travel to my previous university.

          Moving onto a course where there are a smaller number of students in my cohort has been the most beneficial aspect of this course as it gives each student enough time to build a rapport with their mentor and this makes the environment much more comfortable.”

          Additionally, the degree course has an emphasis on gaining real-world experience through the Club Community Organisations themselves.

          Shay has had the opportunity to develop and learn highly beneficial skills for when he begins searching for his future career after graduating; this often means students are put into a variety of situations and scenarios with people from all walks of life.

          He said: “Working with the Foundation we get the chance to coach different kinds of people whether that be working with adults with mental health struggles, or children who struggle with school. This course is really centred around work-based learning, getting out there and getting as much experience as you can.”

          For Shay, coaching was always something he had loved, and had pursued but he had lost his spark after leaving his previous course.

          He conveyed: The one major benefit with this degree is the volunteering and coaching hours you put in. This has given me a major confidence boost after falling out of love with coaching. This course has given me opportunities around football that I have gladly taken. Without the support of those at the Huddersfield Town Foundation, particularly our mentor Adam, I would not be achieving what I have done already.

          When I first started my degree with the Foundation, I was relatively new to coaching and had only just recently achieved my Level 1 in coaching football, I was nervous at the idea of taking sessions. Now I enjoy coaching sessions and love to be involved in all parts of the team whether it is coaching on the pitch or management during the game. This is something that I would never of thought I’d be ready for before I started my degree at the Foundation.”

          Having re-found his love and passion for coaching the game, Shay now acts as head coach for the Kirklees College Football Programme, something that has only left Shay with positive experiences and future goals.

          He said: “Taking on this team has given me experience in a different kind of environment, coaching at this age group and in this setting is something I want to do in the future.”

          Click here to find out more.