As part of our ongoing Year 9 initiative to broaden horizons and introduce pupils to the workplace, students recently embarked on two exciting visits to Preston North End (PNE). The trips were designed to show young people the diverse range of career opportunities available within the sports industry beyond playing on the pitch.

Behind the Scenes at Deepdale

The absolute highlight for many was the exclusive stadium tour. Students were given a rare, behind-the-scenes look at areas usually reserved for matchday professionals and staff.

The tour took students into:

  • The Media Room: Where managers and players face the press after fixtures.
  • The Changing Rooms: Seeing where the matchday squads prepare.
  • The Manager's Office: Gaining insight into leadership behind the scenes.
  • Pitch Side: Experiencing the scale of the stadium from the dugout.

Along the way, students observed a range of employers going about their day-to-day roles, including watching the groundsperson meticulously tending to the pitch to ensure it was match-ready.

A Special Visit with the Women's First Team Manager

Adding to an already unforgettable day, one of our groups received a special treat following the Women's team's recent victory and successful passage to the FA Cup first round. The manager delivered an inspiring talk and hosted an engaging Q&A session, sharing valuable insights into leadership, teamwork, dedication, and sports management.

The Merits of Workplace Visits

Trips like these play a vital role in our careers education curriculum. By stepping outside the classroom, students are able to:

  • Connect Learning to the Real World: See how academic skills translate into actual workplace environments.
  • Discover Hidden Career Paths: Learn about the vast array of support roles—from groundskeeping and media to management and hospitality—that make major organizations run.
  • Raise Aspirations: Interact with professionals who can spark new career interests and motivate them for their GCSE years and beyond.

A massive thank you to everyone at Preston North End for hosting us and providing our Year 9 students with such an inspiring and eye-opening experience of the world of work!