Latest News
Date:
22/6/2026
Posted By:
Alex
Category:
Education
Jackson’s Journey: How our West Notts College Partnership is expanding the world of coaching
For students looking to build a career in sports, gaining direct experience with a professional football club charity is invaluable. That is exactly what the partnership between Vision West Notts College (WNC) and Nottingham Forest Community Trust (NFCT) offers.
Beyond traditional classroom education, this coaching programme bridges the gap between theory and practice. One student who has been heavily involved in the programme this year is Jackson.
With applications open for the 2026/27 academic year, his journey shows how the hands-on learning model works in practice.
“My world of coaching has expanded”
For Jackson, the draw of the course was simple. A love for coaching and a desire to gain experience with Nottingham Forest. Over the past year, his high level of engagement has seen him gain practical experience as an aspiring coach.
Through the programme, Jackson has achieved official Premier League Coaching and refereeing qualifications, building on his existing skills.
“It’s inspiring,” Jackson reflects. “I’ve gone on to do an official referee course because of all the practical refereeing we’ve done on the programme, and I’ve really learned to enjoy it.”
“When you think of the Premier League, you think it’s out of reach, but visiting the Premier League Head Office showed me it’s just normal people doing great things.”
Jackson’s journey also included matchday work experience in the fan zones during high-profile fixtures throughout the 2025/26 season – including acting as the official Robin Hood mascot for a number of UEFA Europa League fixtures.
“Working matchdays is incredible because there are so many people in a big city like Nottingham,” Jackson says.
“You get to engage with everyone, and they treat you with real respect. Being Robin Hood for European games such an experience.”
Through community coaching placements in local schools and at school tournaments, Jackson has also focused on working with young people. “Being able to teach people something new is so rewarding,” he says.
Looking to the future, he feels the course has given him a strong starting point: “This course is the foundation of my career. If I go on to have a big coaching career, I will only have West Notts College and Nottingham Forest Community Trust to thank.”
“To anyone thinking of applying for 26/27, I say: Do it. You can’t go wrong.”
Why Choose West Notts College & Nottingham Forest Community Trust for 26/27?
Kick-start your career in sports coaching with this hands-on, industry-focused course designed to prepare you for employment in primary school and community coaching roles.
This CIMSPA-accredited course offers a unique blend of academic study and practical experience, ensuring you leave the course work-ready.
Students will gain real-world coaching experience in both school and community settings across Nottinghamshire, developing the skills to deliver inclusive, high-quality sessions for diverse groups.
