PREMIER LEAGUE BURSARIES FOR THE LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME

The Premier League is partnering with Women in Football to offer bursary-funded places on the 2024–25 Leadership Programme (levels 1–4). This is a valuable opportunity for women working across the top four leagues of English football to develop their leadership potential and accelerate their careers.

 

Eligibility criteria

 
General requirements

People applying for bursary places must:

  • identify as a woman
  • work in a football-related role within the top four tiers of men's football in England (Premier League, Championship, League One, League Two), or in the top two tiers of women's football in England, or within the CCO networks of the top four tiers
  • be aged 20 or over at the time of applying
  • be able to attend either two days or four days in person to take the programme
  • demonstrate alignment with the aims of the programme: developing leadership, confidence, communication and personal impact in football
  • be the only person applying for a bursary from their club
 
Experience requirements

Levels 1 and 2 of the programme are for women in the early stages of their career, with a minimum of two years' experience.

Levels 3 and 4 are for women with at least three years of management experience (dealing with people, budgets, projects or strategic responsibility).

 

Financial support

All bursary places are fully funded by the Premier League.

As well as programme fees, bursaries cover travel, accommodation and food costs, to a maximum value of £470 for those taking two levels of the course or £670 for those taking all four.

 

Inclusion and diversity 

Our assessment process for bursary applications will be based on Women in Football’s and the Premier League’s shared commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. We strongly welcome applications from women representing the nine protected characteristics as defined in the Equality Act 2010: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. We also take into account socio-economic background and caring responsibilities, which are commonly recognised in inclusive practice.

We particularly encourage applications from those who feel that their lived experiences are underrepresented or who face systemic barriers within football.

We'll prioritise applicants who have taken part in the Premier League Kicks or Premier League Inspires initiatives. We'll also look out for a commitment to personal development and a desire to make an impact in your club or community.

 

The selection process

Applications will be reviewed jointly by Women in Football and the Premier League.

We may ask you to provide a short statement in writing (one side of A4) or on a video (up to two minutes ) explaining:

  • your motivation for applying
  • how the programme will support your leadership journey
  • your current role and career aspirations

Our final selection of bursary recipients will reflect a balance of backgrounds, roles and characteristics.

 

Programme alignment

Successful applicants will:

  • align their development with Premier League leadership frameworks where applicable
  • join a growing Women in Football alumnae network
  • be encouraged to apply their learning in workplace and community initiatives, including EDI-focused programmes
 

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