Want to be the coach of Leeds United?

The Leeds United Foundation, the club’s charitable arm, is offering training and employment opportunities for budding football coaches through its apprenticeship scheme.

Unemployed people aged between 16 and 18 can undertake an NVQ Level 2 qualification in Activity Leadership and Customer Service at Elland Road, and train as a coach within the famous ground.

The 48-week course aims to put 12 promising school leavers through their paces.

The current programme is the first to be delivered by The Leeds United Foundation and the organisation is planning a second intake this year.

Michael Kinsey, Foundation project officer, is championing the course which trains the teenagers in football coaching to leadership skills, customer services and health and safety.

After completing their NVQ, a number of candidates may be taken on to work with children in The Leeds United Foundation.

Others may use the course to gain points towards their university placement, to study for a teaching qualification or as a pathway to higher education.

Mr Kinsey said: “The programme is designed to give youngsters a unique insight into the sports industry and equip them with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed. It also gives the Foundation the opportunity to spot real coaching talent and take people on permanently after the course is complete.”

Apprentice Josh Maskill, 16, of Farsley Leeds, a season ticket holder at Leeds United, said: “I’m really pleased to have been accepted on to the NVQ course.

“I’m a big Leeds United fan so it’s great to be working with my favourite club.

“I hope to be kept on as a coach by the club at the end of the course, and if not, I’d like to find work in a school or somewhere where my skills are needed.”