ESOL Student Selected to Participate in FA and AoC Sport Funded Programme

23 October 2023

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Eldana Tsegay Aregwi, ESOL student at Peterborough College, has been selected to participate in ‘Rising Leaders’ – a programme funded by the Football Association and the Association of Colleges.

Mel Staples (left), ESOL Pastoral Support Worker, with Eldana Tsegay Aregwi (right).

Eldana started at Peterborough College in September 2023, studying at Entry Level 3. After emigrating to the UK in January this year from Eritrea, Eldana has a passion for fitness and sports. She is looking forward to being a part of the Rising Leaders programme to learn more about volunteering in sports and football.

Eldana is a prime example of confidence and determination, with a mission to become a doctor in the future. Her tutor recently commended her resilience, saying, “Eldana hasn’t changed her mind even after I explained how long it would take her to qualify. She is already thinking about the best course next year, as well as possible future jobs to support herself while she’s studying!”.

Mel Staples, ESOL Pastoral Support Worker, commented “Eldana is a hardworking and focused individual; it has been a pleasure having her in College and in class so far this year. I know she will go on to greater things and wish her all the best for the Rising Leaders event.”

The Rising Leaders programme is funded by the Football Association (FA) and delivered by AoC Sport as part of their commitment to improve diversity amongst volunteers and to develop greater equality of opportunities, ensuring that opportunities are available for those who do concurrently have fair access and representation within football.

There are many benefits of taking part in the programme of activities, some of which are supporting learning and development, introducing students to a wide range of individuals working within Football, free attendance at the FA’s ‘Your Game’ event and the Women’s FA Cup final. The stays are residential, each student gets a brand-new Nike kit to wear during their stay, and all accommodation, food, and travel costs will be covered.

Peterborough College, part of Inspire Education Group, is extremely proud of Eldana and wishes her the best of luck with her career!