Shane Long was at the John Madejski Academy this week as trials for the brand new Academy Of Football Studies course got underway.

Long went to the prestigious new facility in Whitley Wood, where girls and boys are both hoping to secure a place on this new two-year full time footballing studies course.

Also at the Academy were players from our women's first team, who are performing exceptionally well and are currently six points clear at the top of the league.

The course is open to school leavers who complete year 11, as well as other aspiring 16 to 18-year-old boys and girls. Applications are still being accepted - details below.

Later that day, Shane was also at the Madejski Stadium Dome to meet some young kids on one of our half term soccer schools.

Successful applicants will study a two-year BTEC National Certificate in Sport at Levels 2 and 3, alongside NVQ FA Level 1 and 2 Coaching Certificates in Football.

Reading FC's professional FA-qualified coaches will conduct the daily practical side of the training, coaching and playing.

The coach education element is supplied by accredited, fully-qualified FA Coach Educators.

On the playing side both boys and girls will have the opportunity to represent the John Madejski Academy with the boys team being entered in the highly acclaimed National Youth Conference League and the girls against other professional academies

The process for selection is by trial and interview to be held at the John Madejski Academy.

Initial dates have been confirmed, and you must apply beforehand.

Boys
Tuesday 11th Mar 7pm-9pm
Tuesday 25th Mar 7pm-9pm

Girls
Tuesday 11th Mar 5pm-7pm
Tuesday 25th Mar 5pm-7pm

In order to apply in advance, download this form then contact Course Director Andy Fogg on andy.fogg@johnmadejskiacademy.co.uk or 0118 937 0200.