NEWPORT County AFC today officially launched its Football League Trust Education & Futsal Programme in conjunction with Llanwern High School.

The programme is aimed at boys and girls aged 16 to 19 in the locality to further both their education skills and their footballing skills with this exciting small sided game.

Pupils will attend daily lectures at Llanwern along with on-line learning opportunities and training at the state of the art facilities on site at the school.

Students successful in their applications will start the two year course in September this year and will study towards a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (equivalent to 3 A Levels).

They will also receive specific futsal training from UEFA Coaches on a daily basis. In addition to this they will represent the club at the official Futsal League based in Swindon on a fortnightly basis with both men's and women's teams.

Qualified teachers from Llanwern High School will deliver the education programme to the highest standards and modules will include Sports Coaching, Psychology for Sports Performance and Sport as a Business.

During the course students will also work with Newport County AFC on match-days and assist with the County in the Community programme. At the end of the course it will open the door to University courses and sports industry careers.

A club statement said: "This is yet another exciting partnership between the football club and an important member of the community in Llanwern High.

"The school already hosts our scholars and provide amazing support both educationally with first rate teachers and use of their superb facilities.

"The futsal programme will only add to this collaboration and educate the next generation with skills on and off the pitch."

County chief executive Dave Boddy highlighted the importance of a good relationship with educational establishments in the city.

He said: "This is another exciting development for Newport County AFC and we are delighted to be able to launch the Futsal Academy for several reasons; it extends and develops our already excellent partnership with Llanwern High School and to be able to utilise their excellent facilities, facilities that the whole community should be proud of.

"It will also give young men and women the opportunity to further their education providing clear pathways for a career in sport.

"From the club's point of view it is a further indication of our commitment to our community programme."

Llanwern High headteacher Peter Jenkins said: "We are delighted once again to provide, in partnership with Newport County, a rich sporting and academic experience that will prepare students for their exciting lives ahead."