GEMMA Wickett, from Altarnun, was on the ball when she landed her dream job as a community coach with Plymouth Argyle.

A former Duchy College student, Gemma studied on the college’s Plymouth Argyle Football Education Programme or ‘PAFC course’. She will combine this with her studies at UCP Marjon, where she is currently studying for a degree in sports coaching.

Gemma said: “I really enjoyed the PAFC course at Duchy College, it was well structured, I learnt a lot and developed some great contacts at Argyle.

“We had the opportunity to go and develop our fitness at the facilities at Home Park, which was fantastic.

“The chance to become a community coach is brilliant; we work with the schools to help with PE sessions and after school clubs.

“I would definitely recommend the PAFC Education Programme, it opens up so many opportunities not just to become a professional football player but also a coach in football and other sports.”

East Cornwall football development officer at the Argyle Community Trust, Lewis Coombes, said on offering Gemma a place on Argyle’s coaching team: “We are delighted to be able to offer Gemma the opportunity to be part of our great coaching team within North Devon and Cornwall.

“The skills and knowledge that she has gained from the course she is now transferring into a role which has a positive impact on the development of many children.”

He added: “She is now gaining valuable experience that will allow her to follow her chosen career path. It is a pleasure having her as an important part of our growing coaching team.”

Whilst taking part in the Football Education Programme at Duchy College, Gemma was able to learn relevant skills and expertise, which prepared her for her new role in the sports industry.

The course has opened up opportunities for Gemma and has helped others get into either coaching or playing at a higher level.

Team lead for sport at Duchy College, Darren Evans, said: “The course at Duchy College has allowed Gemma to both progress into employment and gain a place at university. Students gain much experience in working with a variety of groups throughout their time and leave us with the confidence and skills required by the sports industry, particularly within sports coaching.

“Working in partnership with Plymouth Argyle has opened up opportunities for the students and has given them the chance to work with a professional football club.”

For more information on the range of sport courses available across The Cornwall College Group, visit www.duchy.ac.uk or call 0845 60 50 455.