The Academy will run courses in reading, writing, speaking, listening and skills for life, aimed at international students with a passion for the beautiful game and who want to improve their English language skills.

Courses are taught by the Academy’s qualified team of teachers and students have access to the club’s experienced FA football coaches. All English lessons are provided in the stadium’s modern, fully equipped classrooms.

The Academy offers a rounded learning experience for its students. As well as their English language education, they get the chance to experience life in a professional English football club, develop their football skills and make friends from all around the world. The Academy also offers assistance with accommodation, opening a bank account and introduces students to Blackburn Rovers and the local area.

The International Education Academy is part of The Blackburn Rovers Community Trust. In 2014 The Trust engaged with 19,412 people of all ages. In the same year over 15, 500 hours of contact time with people on courses and programmes was successfully delivered. The Trust employs over 16 people and has in excess of 30 volunteers.

Key partnerships with The Trust include The Premier League, The Professional Footballers’ Association, Sport England and associated National Governing Bodies and the FA.

The Academy offers various courses: a 30 week course for students who want to take an academic year out to develop their skills in a professional football environment. An intensive four-week Summer School for students on their summer break to improve their English before starting college. Finally, the Christmas School where students get to enjoy their holidays amongst the excitement of the football season at Blackburn Rovers and experience a Rovers Christmas.

Academy Director and Internal Verifier Stuart Hanson said:

“When students train with Blackburn Rovers we look at developing the individual to help them realise his or her potential. Our courses offer a unique blend of English language training, personal development and professional football coaching. Now we’re an NOCN recognised Centre, students can gain internationally recognised qualifications to help them reach their long term goals.”
NOCN Area Manager David Ravensdale added:

“We are really happy to have Blackburn Rovers as one of our Centres because they do good work locally and with international students. We create opportunities for learning and development and Blackburn’s innovative academy is certainly in line with our aspirations.”

>Read the club's own press release.

To find out more, visit the Blackburn Rovers International Academy website: www.brfcinternational.com