United legends study at SGP

The coaches were introduced to a variety of viewpoints and research through both classroom-based and practical activities and the  Award is compulsory for coaches who work in the professional game.

FA youth training has been revolutionised and the old days of coach-led, drill-based sessions are over. Changes in the approach to technical development of players now means training sessions are more player-centred, involving decision-making activities and games to help young players get a wider sense of the game while their minds are still receptive to new ideas.

And Pro Licence candidates were joined by top coaches from the game to take the next steps in gaining the qualification required to be first team managers in the Premier League.

The development of these courses, the psychological approach to training and the role of support staff are all critical to ensuring that The FA continues to deliver world-class coaching.

“St. George’s Park is a fantastic venue for so many reasons, but it’s moments such as this when it transforms into the type of inspirational learning environment that takes our learners’ educational experience to that extra level," said Chris Earle, The FA's head of education.

“Of course, there’s lots of learning taking place in the classrooms and on the pitches, but it was fantastic to see  Advanced Youth Award learners – aspiring, ambitious coaches from professional academies across the country – getting the opportunity to mix with some top former pros and some of the best up-and-coming coaches on the UEFA Pro Licence.

“There is so much value in those informal moments where experience, knowledge and insight can be shared during a break or over a coffee.

“At The FA, we’re committed to creating a world-leading education programme for every learner, and these moments are just as important to helping us achieve that as the workshops, sessions and content that make up our courses.”