Oldham Active and Oldham College have launched a Workforce Academy giving sports and fitness students hands-on experience alongside their college courses.

The programme works in a similar way to an apprenticeship, with students splitting time between study at college and practical placements at Oldham Active venues and in the community.

The first group of 12 students joined earlier this year, with the scheme expanding as the new academic year gets under way.

Among them is 16-year-old Josh, who is studying for his Sports Coach Level 3 qualification at Oldham College. As part of his placement he has helped deliver community sports programmes in local schools.

Josh said: "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."

Steve Ferriss, Sport Development Officer at Oldham Active, said students aged 16 to 18 can explore different roles in the health and wellbeing sector, at leisure centres or out in the community. He said those who complete their qualifications will have the chance to move into paid roles.

Dominic Pates, Programme Tutor, Sport and Academies, at Oldham College, said the partnership had followed several years of planning and would help learners build skills and industry knowledge.