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ECFA Development Framework Elevates Football Standards in Further Education

26 September 2023

“Your College, Your Students, Your Way"

The ECFA (English Colleges Football Association) proudly announces the successful implementation of the ECFA Development Framework, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at driving excellence in football across further education institutions. Developed in collaboration with sector experts and Sheffield Hallam University's Sport Industry Research Centre, this innovative framework empowers colleges to unlock their full potential in the world of football.

In a remarkable display of commitment to the sport and their students, 18 colleges have completed the ECFA Development Framework for the 2022/2023 academic year. These institutions have diligently submitted extensive evidence across the framework's four essential pillars, which include Participation (providing inclusive playing opportunities), Competition (supporting talent development), Workforce (developing a student workforce), and Community (engaging with the broader community).

The ECFA Development Framework serves as a testament to these colleges' unwavering dedication to enhancing their football provision, ensuring they stand as the premier destinations for students to play, volunteer, and revel in the beautiful game throughout their educational journeys. Enjoy the essence of the beautiful game throughout their educational experiences.

The benefits bestowed upon participating colleges are both substantial and tangible. These institutions have received a kit voucher to enhance their team's appearance, an "Intro to Coaching Football" (Level 1) voucher to nurture coaching talent, and a personalized action plan report to guide their continued growth. In addition, each college will receive a bespoke plaque to proudly showcase their remarkable achievements. Furthermore, these colleges will enjoy priority support across a range of ECFA programs and funding initiatives, further bolstering their development across the four key pillars of the framework.

Through the ECFA Development Framework, participating colleges are not only elevating the standards of football within their institutions but also fostering a vibrant and inclusive football culture that benefits both their students and the broader community.

Get involved with the ECFA Development Framework here

Josh Stockdale, AoC Sport National Football Development Officer said 

"It has been a privilege to support our ECFA Development Framework colleges this year. Their commitment to continuous improvement and raising standards across their football provision has been highly impactful. We are enthusiastic that our bespoke action plan reports will remain a valuable resource for our colleges in shaping football development over the coming academic years. If your college would be interested in getting involved with our ECFA Development Framework programme, to make a difference in the 23/24 academic year, we encourage you to contact us today. Let's work together to elevate college football to new heights.