UCFB launch groundbreaking higher education partnership with Hebburn Town FC

University Campus of Football Business (UCFB) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Hebburn Town FC, creating a first-of-its-kind opportunity in the region for aspiring footballers and students alike. 

This innovative collaboration introduces a unique Higher Education pathway that combines degree-level academic study with a full-time football development programme — all delivered locally at the home of Hebburn Town FC, The Trustmark Group Stadium. 

Starting from September 2026, students in the North East will have the opportunity to study for a distance with attendance degree over a three-year period while remaining at home, continuing their education alongside daily training and competitive football. This approach removes the need to relocate, offering a more accessible, flexible, and cost-effective route into higher education and the football industry. 

A key strength of the UCFB course is its industry-focused curriculum. Students will gain access to distance with attendance degree courses specifically tailored to the football and wider sports industry, delivered by experienced lecturers with professional backgrounds. The course, validated by University of East London, also provides valuable opportunities for networking, guest speakers, and industry insight across a range of careers in football — including coaching, performance analysis, sports business, media, and management roles. 

The course is designed to seamlessly complement Hebburn Town FC’s existing Further Education provision for 16–18-year-olds. Together, the pathways create a clear and structured five-year journey for students aged 16 through to 21 — allowing them to combine full-time education with elite-level football training and match play. 

Importantly, this extended pathway also strengthens opportunities for progression within the club, with students able to work towards involvement in Hebburn Town FC’s senior setup, including the men’s reserves and first team. 

Beyond academic and athletic development, the partnership reinforces the club’s commitment to player welfare. By operating under one unified programme, Hebburn Town FC can closely monitor training loads, match minutes, and overall player development. This holistic approach helps reduce the risk of injury and burnout — issues that can often arise when young players are spread across multiple teams, academies, and competing commitments. 

Hebburn Town CEO Stephen Rutherford commented: 

“This partnership is another important step in the evolution of Hebburn Town FC as more than just a football club. We are continuing to develop into a true community and education hub, and this collaboration with UCFB allows us to double down on our commitment to supporting local children and families. It ensures that young people in our area have access to high-quality education and elite football development right here on their doorstep, without having to leave home to pursue their ambitions.” 

Nick Wilkinson, director of global student recruitment of UCFB, said: 

“We are delighted to partner with Hebburn Town FC on this exciting and innovative initiative. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to developing the next generation of talent, both on the pitch and across the wider football industry. By combining UCFB’s industry-focused higher education offering with Hebburn Town’s strong community and player development ethos, we are creating a unique and accessible pathway for students in the North East to pursue their academic and sporting ambitions without leaving their local area.” 

This landmark partnership with Hebburn Town FC highlights the shared ambition to provide a complete development environment — one that nurtures talent both on and off the pitch, while opening doors to a wide range of careers within the global football industry.

Courses will commence in September 2026, with further details on course structure, entry requirements, and enrolment to be announced in due course.