TALENTED footballers can take part in a new community outreach programme from September.

Sarum Academy is launching its Football Elite course in the new school year as part of its Sixth Form provision.

The programme, which is in partnership with championship side AFC Bournemouth, is designed for those interested in football and sport at the highest level.

The course will feature coaching and training provided by qualified staff from AFC Bournemouth, including head coach Russell Beardsmore, a former Manchester United player.

Students will study Level 3 BTEC sport, fitness instructing and FA coaching courses and will have the opportunity to study other A-level and BTEC subjects available at Sarum Academy.

They will train full time and play weekly in the Football Conference Youth Alliance South West Division.

To get on the Football Elite programme, pupils have to pass an open trial, which is on April 28 at Sarum Academy from 5.30pm.

Steve Cuss, head of Community Sports Trust at AFC Bournemouth, said: “The football trial provide the players with the opportunity to showcase their skills and to meet the AFC Bournemouth coaches ahead of the new partnerships starting in September.”

Year 11 pupils interested in taking part should email post16@sarumacademy.org.