UCFB students gain coaching experience with Raheem Sterling’s RS7 Academy

“If I didn’t come to UCFB, I genuinely wouldn’t have got these opportunities that I have got today, so I am very, very thankful for UCFB.” 

“I’ve really enjoyed taking the sessions. It’s completely different to anything that I’ve done working in football previously.” 

“I’m so thankful for UCFB for the opportunities that I get; not only these, but I get so many more opportunities and it’s honestly like a dream come true.” 

These are just some of the words of our coaching students who have been gaining valuable industry experience at sessions with The RS7 Academy. 

The students have been coaching children at the RS7 Academy, helping develop their talents while also working on their own coaching skills. The students are from courses such as: 

• BA (Hons) Football Coaching and Management 

• BA (Hons) Football Coaching and Talent Development

• BA (Hons) Sports Business and Coaching  

The RS7 Academy looks at developing young footballers, both physically and mentally, from early ages onwards. 

UCFB and footballer Raheem Sterling have been working together since 2024, when together they launched the Raheem Sterling Foundation Scholarship, funding scholarships for two students from underrepresented backgrounds within sport and football.

These sessions are the start of this specific programme between the two organisations, with plans for future students to also take part and gain experience within it. 

Speaking about the programme, Raheem Sterling said: “Providing UCFB students with real-life experience is incredibly important to their development, and working alongside the RS7 coaches gives them the confidence, support, and trust they need to gain truly valuable hands-on experience.

“The UCFB students have been an absolute pleasure to work with and have brought great energy and commitment in supporting the RS7 coaches throughout the academy sessions.”

Darren Smith, associate dean and senior lecturer at UCFB Wembley, said: “Experiences like this are so valuable for any student and especially coaches just starting their journey, being in here seeing the kids from a young age. 

“Learning in this environment for our students means they can take it into a professional football academy.” 

He added: “The academy, especially Raheen Sterling and what he’s doing in the community for kids at all levels, is a huge benefit for our students, seeing the development of growth from the beginning and not joining an established football programme. 

“One of the biggest things for coaches is how do you deal with a kid’s parent and the pressure that’s put on them. Our students are getting first-hand knowledge of getting out there discussing development of a child with the parents, but also the kids. 

“Being part of this and what Raheem’s doing, not just this project but some of the wider projects that are going on; it’s a great opportunity just for our students but also the wider UCFB community.” 

Find out more about UCFB’s unique undergraduate sports industry-focused degree courses, ranging from topics such as sports media and business as well as coaching. 

You can also view a prospectus to learn about our unique sports industry-focused courses, our campuses and everything about student life at UCFB.