Norwich City FC Regional Development Program proved so successful in its first 18 months that Ely College & Bishop Laney Sixth College have been turned into a new Community Hub Partner which is hoped to bring benefits, not just for Ely College but also the wider community.
Former Norwich City professional and Canaries Hall of Fame entrant, Adam Drury was on hand for a Q&A session with the boys from the College before the formal proceeding of launching the hub took place.
The left back enjoyed 11 years at the Canaries after being a Norwich academy student himself. Drury claims he has no regrets during his career despite being offered many chances to “chase the money” and advised those who plan a career in football to continually learn both in and after school. “Always adapt and don’t be afraid to ask questions” was the advice from Drury.
Drury who played 361 games for Norwich, 9 for Leeds and 178 for Peterborough was never sent off, won the league twice and was named “Player of the Year” for the Canaries, and so this record stands him in good stead as he now performs duties as a coach.
Alex Kaufman, the RDP Development Officer for Cambridgeshire commented on the partnership: “We are delighted to officially confirm the Norwich City FC RDP partnership with Ely College & Bishop Laney Sixth Form, and with the Colleges ownership through CMAT, we have already seen a clear increase in the opportunity provided for the young people of the school and the surrounding areas. We will continue to provide Ely College & Bishop Laney Sixth Form programmes and projects that will support the growth of their pupils in sport, further education and careers and look forward to working closely with the head teacher, Richard Spencer and his team of dedicated staff”.
Richard Spencer, Head of Ely College, said: “It’s great we’ve been able to build upon the excellent relationship forged with Norwich City FC Regional Development Programme. This opportunity widens the net for more students to benefit from our high standards of teaching and support within our vibrant Sixth Form. We are very excited with this new initiative enabling students to broaden their skills, try out new activities and, above all, enjoy their learning”.
A programme for girls is to be introduced in September 2017 to provide further opportunity and diversity to accompany the College ethos “providing opportunities for everyone”.
