Former Telford College student Godfred Manu has excelled since completing his programme. He is currently a teaching assistant at Telford Langley school but has big aspirations.

The former Telford Park school student first found out about studying at the Haybridge campus when a school liaison officer visited and gave an insightful assembly, discussing options and career paths. Following an open event, Godfred knew a career in sports was for him and enrolled on to our football programme.

“My dream was to be a sports agent,” says Godfred. “I was interested in the management options the football course provided, as it covered all elements of the game and wasn’t just about playing.

“We had a lot of team-building exercises, as well as individual development work such as planning and even some health care planning work.

“I was impressed by the facilities compared to the school I was coming from. The difference between a secondary school and a large modern campus was mind blowing!”

After completing his studies, Godfred went to Coventry University to study sports management. “I really enjoyed my time at Telford College. The staff were very supportive, and they helped me put together my personal statement which helped me get into university.

“I liked the freedom we were given with our course; it was a very similar environment to what I had in Coventry. My transition from college to university made it easier to settle in and the independence I’d been taught helped me pick up the work a lot quicker.”

After leaving university, Godfred signed up for an agency and started working as a teaching assistant at Telford Langley, being offered a permanent role at the school. “My target for the future is to become a PE teacher and I will be going back to university to complete my teacher training in order to achieve my goals.”

Melanie Newbrook, learner manager for sport & public uniformed services at Telford College, was Godfred’s former teacher. She said: “Godfred was a fantastic student. He really enjoyed our football course and was very good at the practical side of the programme.

“When we had schools in to compete in sports events, He’d get stuck into officiating games and liaised really well with members of staff, making the most of all of the opportunities we had in our enrichment programme.”

Telford College’s director of vocational, Ashley Bowler, said: “Godfred was an excellent student who applied himself to all elements of the course. His excellent attitude to learning and practical skills ensured his progression on to university.

“We are really proud of Godfred’s achievements to date and know there is more to come as his career in sport and education progresses.”

Godfred added: “I would recommend to any students who want to study sport to enjoy their time here. Listen to the advice you’re given, as it really helped me become independent and helped me achieve what I have.”

Aiming for a career in sports like Godfred? Check out our sports programmes.