UCFB offers a number of unique scholarship opportunities to students of all abilities across a number of disciplines, with scholarships available based on academic and sporting achievements, as well as social mobility, among other categories.

Tom Mitchell, a BA (Hons) Football Coaching & Management student, was awarded the Dr. Brian Barwick Scholarship. Here, he tells us about how the award has helped him at UCFB, as well as detailing his time at UCFB so far.

How has the scholarship helped you so far?

The scholarship has helped me in many ways. Just getting the scholarship has given me more confidence in myself, especially as I suffer from anxiety and depression. I’m looking forward to taking future courses that will help me grow, especially stress management.

What made you decide to want to come to UCFB and apply for the scholarship?

I applied for the scholarship when my mum made me aware of their availability. When I read up on them, I decided that the Dr. Brian Barwick scholarship was the right one. I decided to study at UCFB because I wanted something different, and I wanted an institution that specialised in football in particular.

How has your time at UCFB been so far?

It’s been good, and a quick learning curve. I came in thinking I knew a lot about coaching and football and found out that I did know a lot, but there is a lot more to learn. I’m enjoying my time here.

What aspects of UCFB have you enjoyed the most?

I have really enjoyed the seminars with Alan Tonge. He is a great teacher – even if he has a Manchester United bias! Our practical sessions are always enjoyable, the guest speaker series has been good, and already with Peter Smith (Sky Sports commentator) I have commentated on Bolton U23s vs Nottingham Forest U23s.

Any advice for students looking to come to UCFB, in particular those looking for a scholarship?

My advice would be to follow your heart and if you have achieved something you are proud of, in my case beating a mental health illness, then take that with you and build on it. That is why I went for the scholarship. If you want to try something different and if you want to do something that you genuinely love, then go for it even if it breaks the mould of normal.