Progression routes

PROGRESSION

A significant goal of our programme is to provide a progression route for every single student/athlete in the academy. By doing so, we hope not only to produce professional and semi-professional footballers, but also to maintain motivation to sustain sport participation levels for those who are not ready to make the step into elite football.

Internal Progression Routes

Student athletes can progress from the U17’s (Cat 3) into the U19’s (Cat 2) and then on to the Elites (Cat 1 - Highest level of college football). Progression occurs on a weekly basis, players move up and down the ladder depending on committment, attendance and performance.

External Progression Routes

Once a student athlete reaches and maintains their postition within the academies Elite Squad, they will be challenged externally. Dependant on their ability and performance, student athletes have the opportunity to progress into Non-League Reserve/First Team squads, or even earn trials with Professional Academies and represent England Schools at National Level.

Inih Effiong

Oaklands College to Professional Contract

Inih enrolled onto a Level 3 Sport course which ran alongside the Oaklands Wolves Football Academy. A raw talent with a great physical presence, Inih quickly became a key member of the academy, making his debut for St Albans City F.C. under the club’s then Head Coach; Steve Castle. Inih went on to make a name for himself in Non-League football, playing for Woking, Dover Athletic, Barnet, as well as professionally Stevenage and Ross County in the Scottish Premier League.

STUDYING

at Oaklands

The college offers a broad spectrum of exciting and engaging courses, ranging from BTEC Level 1, 2 and 3, as well as a range of Value-Added A Level programmes, Construction Trades including Plumbing, Electrical Installation, Carpentry, Brickwork and more, ensuring every student can choose the appropriate academic pathway that suits their individual career aspirations.

Supporting Your Learning

Oaklands College has an excellent Student Advice Team who support students with any pastoral needs, including: - Academic choice support - Bursaries and financial assistant - Assignment and learning support - Special exam arrangements and many more

English & Maths

All students without a Grade 4 in Maths and/ or English will be expected to retake them alongside their chosen academic option. This is usually supported with additional lessons, which will be added to a students’ timetable, to help each student to reach the required grade.

Academic Choices

Students at Oaklands are encouraged to explore the wide-range of courses, as part of the academic offering at the college. Students are encouraged to study a relevant course which can be pursued when their playing career ends. For example, students can choose to study a BTEC qualification specialising in Sport and Exercise Sciences, which can lead to careers within Sport.

Timetable Clashes

We try to avoid clashes between training and lessons, however not all academic courses are 100% compatible. In the event of a clash, academic commitments always take priority.

Kyle Ajayi

Oaklands College to English Colleges National Squad

Whilst a part of the academy, Kyle was called up to represent England Schools in 2018, alongside Dan Gould, for the prestigious Centenary Shield, a known proving ground for some of the country’s top talents. Kyle continued to improve, signing for Aylesbury United FC and AFC Dunstable. In 2020, Kyle moved clubs again, taking the step up to play his football in the National League South with Hemel Hempstead Town F.C.