Coleg Gwent has teamed up with Cwmbran Celtic FC to launch a “football excellence programme”.
The partnership gives learners the chance to develop their football talents while gaining valuable life skills both on and off the pitch and receiving support in their education.
Cwmbran Celtic was founded in 2025 and has grown into a club with squads spanning all age groups and abilities.
A press release announcing the launch said: “Known for its community spirit and dedication to grassroots football, the club’s values align perfectly with Coleg Gwent’s mission of “changing lives through learning.”
Jess Pike, employer engagement advisor at Coleg Gwent, said: The Football Excellence Programme offers exciting opportunities for learners, whether they dream of playing professionally or want to improve their skills. Learners will benefit from playing on Cwmbran Celtic’s state-of-the-art pitch, accessing specialised equipment, like VEO technology to analyse their performance and coaching from Cwmbran Celtic’s expert coaches. Coaches will also attend college games to scout talent, providing opportunities for students to potentially join the club’s senior teams.”
Barrie Desmond, chairperson at Cwmbran Celtic said: “Partnering with Coleg Gwent provides a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our ties with the local community while creating a clear pathway for young talent to progress to higher levels of football. We’re proud to be part of this initiative, which combines education and sport to develop well-rounded individuals.”
Riley Williamson, team captain said: “What excites me most about the Cwmbran Celtic partnership is that there could be an opportunity to progress to play for Cwmbran Celtic. I am happy being selected as captain as it gives me a responsibility to be a leader on the pitch especially now that we have a younger squad, which creates a new challenge. This also makes being a leader more important.”
The long-term goal of this partnership is to raise the standard of football at Coleg Gwent and the wider Torfaen area.