The programme will play a vital role in developing the volunteer workforce within the game by creating an effective pathway for young leaders to continue their volunteering experience in FA Charter Standard clubs or other appropriate agencies.

The Step into Sport project aims to provide a simple framework of coordinated opportunities to increase the potential for young people to participate in volunteering and leadership through sport.

Funded by DCMS through the PESSCL strategy, the programme is developing a future generation of leaders and volunteers who have the knowledge and experience to make a positive contribution to local sporting communities. It targets young people aged 14-19 years old.

Following this leadership training, young volunteers are placed onto the ‘Step into Sport’ programme, a national initiative run by the YST, Sports Leaders UK and Sport England, that involves the placement into local clubs to continue their volunteering.

The FA ran six pilot programmes for Step into Sport last year and is rolling out the initiative this year across County FA’s, albeit on an optional basis.

The programme will involve local FA’s and County Sports Partnerships working together with FA Charter Standard Clubs or other suitable agencies, to place these young leaders, alongside existing qualified club personnel, to develop their skills in a number of areas.

Click here to download The FA's Step into Sport framework