Talented Athletes

Students who play a sport competitively at a national or international level may be eligible to join our Talented Athletes programme. This is designed to ensure that those with the potential to do so can excel in both their sport and their studies.

Elite athletes who are part of this programme receive support to ensure they can combine the demands of competing in their chosen sport with excelling in their studies. This includes supporting students if they are invited to represent their sport on an national or international level. As part of this, we will work with the education team as relevant to ensure our elite athletes are supported when they are competing.

Please note that Talented Athletes are not exempt from the College’s attendance requirements and are expected to arrange regular training around their College timetable. Being part of the scheme is subject to an application process during interview.

We support a hugely diverse range of elite athletes – below you can hear more from some of our current and most recent Talented Athletes!

Oyinkansola Kadiri

Studied: A Level Psychology, Chemistry and Biology
Sport: DISE Programme – England Rugby League Talent Scheme

“I am passionate about both my Rugby, and my studies. The Talented Athletes programme has genuinely enabled me to combine both. Throughout my time at HNC I have been supported to manage my commitment to my Diploma in Sporting Excellence with England Rugby, along with my academic studies. For me, it is important I do just as well in these to ensure I can progress successfully in my career in future. The support available lets you do just that, I am very grateful!”

Matthew Weston

Studied: A Level Physical Education, Biology and Chemistry
Sport: Yorkshire Cricket Academy

“I have really enjoyed every aspect of my experience at HNC. The excellent sports/cricket facilities have provided me with the perfect opportunity to develop my skills over the course of the 2 years. On top of this, the advice and support I have receive from the staff has been exceptional.”

Phoebe Suthers

Studies: A Level Physical Education, Biology and Psychology
Sport: Team GB Deaf Tennis Squad

“I have loved my time at HNC, and it was great to be part of a programme supporting so many Talented Athletes. I am really proud to be part of the team GB squad, and the support of the programme offered meant I could excel in both my studies and my sport.”

Jamila Siddiqui

Studied: BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport
Sport: National Taekwondo Champion, completes internationally

“College is an amazing place to study whilst competing in your chosen sport. My international competing commitments meant I needed time away from College. The support from HNC during this time allowed me to succeed in my sport and gain my qualifications which were just as important for my studies.”

Anna Pederson

Studied: A Level Physical Education, Biology and Maths
Sport: Previously signed for Everton’s U20s Academy. Current goalkeeper for London City Lionesses

“Both my studies and my career have been incredibly exciting and I am of course thrilled to have been signed for London City Lionesses. This will help me to take my training to a whole new level, and of course hopefully see me playing for the Women’s First Team in the not too distant future. College has been incredibly supportive of my journey as a footballer and helping me combine this with my A Levels to make sure I can succeed in both.”