Starting in September 2027, high-performing education provider LLS is joining forces with Upton-by-Chester High School to deliver an unmatched, career-defining pathway for young people passionate about building a future in the sports industry.
The ground breaking collaboration comes at a monumental time for Upton-by-Chester High School, coinciding with the grand opening of its brand-new, multi-million-pound school building in Summer 2027. Senior leaders from both organisations have respected each other’s work from afar for several years—making the launch of this official partnership in state-of-the-art facilities the perfect match.
An Elite Pathway: Just 20 Places Available
To maintain the highest standard of delivery and individual support, the LLS programme at Upton-by-Chester High School will be capped at just 20 places for its inaugural September 2027 intake. Applications are open to students from Chester as well as surrounding regions.
Successful applicants will study towards a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching & Development. But this isn’t just learning in a classroom—studies will be brought to life every single week through immersive, practical work experience.
Year 12 (First Year):
Students will gain hands-on coaching experience volunteering alongside the school’s PE department and local primary schools. To cap off their first year, students will test their developing skills on an international coaching trip to Alicante, Spain during the summer term.
Year 13 (Second Year):
Work placements step up to a professional level, offering direct access to specialist environments including commercial gyms, professional football clubs, and physiotherapy practices.
From the Etihad Stadium to the World Stage
Beyond the curriculum, students will enjoy VIP access to experiences rarely available to sixth-form students. From residential trips in Liverpool to behind-the-scenes visits at top UK professional sports facilities, the opportunities are designed to inspire.
A marquee moment in the academic calendar is the annual Global Coaching Conference, held every November at The Etihad Stadium in Manchester. Here, second-year students will rub shoulders with active sports employers from across the globe—opening doors to paid international job opportunities upon graduation in countries including the USA, Canada, Qatar, the UAE, and Spain.
Marc Garnett, Commercial Director at LLS, expressed his enthusiasm for the project:
“We first met senior leaders at Upton-by-Chester High School many years ago, and their ambition for young people was infectious. When considering working with new schools, LLS looks for partners whose core beliefs align with ours. In Upton-by-Chester, we saw a school that truly believes in learning to shape the future, led by a leadership team passionate about continuous improvement and seeking new opportunities.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with the school, especially as their new multi-million-pound building reaches completion. The combination of world-class learning facilities, practical industry experience, and global pathways creates a genuine formula for student success.“
How to Apply & Exclusive Ticket Opportunity
Applications for the September 2027 cohort are NOW OPEN.
To celebrate the launch, LLS and Upton-by-Chester High School are offering an exclusive incentive for early applicants: Anyone who submits an application and attends an official taster session this November will be entered into a draw / given the opportunity to attend a live UEFA Champions League fixture—Manchester City vs. Napoli on Thursday, 24th November.
Don’t miss out on securing one of the 20 elite places. Shape your future in sports today.
