First ECFA Star Awarded to RNN Group
Scoring a major win in college sport, RNN Group has secured its first English Colleges Football Association (ECFA) Star.
Independent evaluators commissioned by the Association of Colleges (AoC) praised the programme for providing opportunities to all students, regardless of their timetable or study programme.
In line with this commitment, RNN Group has partnered with Momentous Football Academy to integrate education and sport. Weekly and 1:1 sessions are available for all students with a range of abilities, combining studies with high-level football performance in a supportive environment.
Students benefit from expert coaching while developing skills on and off the pitch. Regular transport connects learners from Rotherham College and North Notts College to Dearne Valley College, where the training grounds are located.
Discover more about the Momentous Football Academy programme
Teams from across RNN Group take part in AoC leagues, with support from UEFA B qualified coaches. Each match is overseen by qualified referees, ensuring a safe and professional environment.
Taking on roles as activators, coaches, and officials, students also gain valuable hands-on experience running the matches. As part of the AoC Sport Student Leadership Programme, ECFA Activators support engagement, promotion, activities, and events, opening up more player and non-player opportunities.
Community links take the football programme further, creating real opportunities for students. Partnerships with England Accredited clubs and the County FA bring football activities onto campus. Learners benefit from practical opportunities, exposure to scouting pathways, and closer connections with the local football community.
Emma Swearman, Health and Wellbeing Lead, said:
“The ECFA Star Accreditation shows that the RNN Group is committed to providing a consistent, high-quality, and sustainable environment for everyone to enjoy football, by developing more opportunities for our students to demonstrate excellence both on and off the pitch. This award reflects the values we hold at RNN Group, putting students at the heart of everything we do, supporting each other, and working as one team. ”
“Looking ahead, we’re excited to develop a larger recreational football offer, strengthen our performance pathways, and create more none-player opportunities. Our aim is to ensure all students can benefit from high quality, inclusive sporting experiences.”
