BRIDGWATER and Taunton College (BTC) has achieved elite football status from the English Colleges Football Association (ECFA).

The College has been awarded the maximum three stars by the ECFA and now stands as one of only four colleges in the UK to achieve this status.

The ECFA, working in partnership with the Association of Colleges (AoC) have developed a new framework aimed at elevating the standards of football in Further Education establishments.

This award recognises the College’s outstanding football provision coupled with their deep-rooted commitment to fostering community relationships through sport.

The stringent award criteria focus on providing inclusive playing opportunities, supporting talent, developing a student workforce and engaging with the community.

Dan Greenwood, National Football Development Manager for the ECFA said: “Bridgwater & Taunton College have demonstrated how important it is to offer a holistic football experience as a college.”

“The offer available to students of all abilities through participation, competition, workforce development and community opportunities is a testament to the hard work of the staff at the College."

Jason Gunningham, Assistant Principal at BTC said: “I am so proud of this accomplishment. To be awarded a three-star rating from the ECFA highlights BTC’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its significant community impact.”

He added: “This achievement solidifies the College’s role as a national leader in sports education. BTC is not only encouraging individual growth in its students but also enriching the health, skills development, and sports accessibility of its community.”

The team at BTC has developed a number of initiatives, such as fostering accessible pathways for participation to connect students and local residents, delivering initiatives that build teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship skills, which enrich both student experiences and the broader community.

BTC’s Club Transition initiative was also highlighted by the ECFA for the work it does to prepare students for progression from amateur to professional levels, further cementing BTC’s reputation.