Creating Pathways For Local Talent

Rotherham United Community Trust (RUCT) has highlighted the significant impact of AESSEAL’s support for its Sports College.

The company’s funding contributes towards the cost of the building that houses the college, enabling hundreds of young people in Rotherham to access high-quality education and practical experience in sport, creating clear pathways into employment and higher education.

The Sports College offers a unique blend of academic study and hands-on training, delivered in partnership with the University of South Wales.

Students can progress from Level 3 BTEC qualifications through to degree-level study, while gaining real-world experience through volunteering and paid roles within RUCT.

Examples of local successes include:

• Alfie Bakes, who joined the college in 2020 and progressed from student to full-time sports tutor after completing his degree in Sports Coaching and Development. His journey included volunteering, evening work, and international football trips to Spain and Italy, which helped him build confidence and technical expertise.
• Hannah Jones, who has been a key contributor to female development programmes. After two years of volunteering across inclusion, education and health projects, she is now employed as an assistant coach and plans to complete a PGCE to teach sport in schools.
• Bailey Finney, who began as a participant in football camps and later studied at the Sports College. Through volunteering and mentoring, Bailey secured a permanent coaching role with RUCT, inspiring others to pursue careers in sport.

These examples demonstrate how AESSEAL’s investment is not only supporting education but also strengthening the local economy by developing skilled professionals who often remain in the region to work and contribute to community projects.

Dan Wilson, CEO of Rotherham United Community Trust, said:

“AESSEAL’s commitment allows us to provide opportunities that change lives.

“The Sports College is a hub for personal growth, career development and community engagement which in turn helps to grow the local economy. Young people are developed through a quality education and elite-level football enrichment, giving them the diverse tools they need to succeed in a range of sectors and roles.”

AESSEAL communications manager Andrew Mosley said:

“It is always good to hear about the positive effect our support can have on the wider community.

“The work that the Sports College carries out benefits youngsters, gets them involved in careers they may not have thought possible, encourages them to stay in the area, and as a result benefits the local economy and Rotherham as a whole.

“We are always delighted to hear about success stories such as Alfie, Hannah and Bailey.”

The company’s support reflects a wider opportunity for local businesses to invest in initiatives that deliver measurable social and economic benefits with the Trust.

By backing their health, inclusion, community and education work, companies can play a direct role in shaping the future workforce and improving outcomes for people in and around Rotherham.