SARUM Academy has bolstered its sixth form football studies programme by partnering up with Championship outfit AFC Bournemouth’s community sports trust.

Students at the school, currently affiliated with Salisbury City FC, will receive coaching and match preparation from Cherries’ coaches, including former Manchester United player Russell Beardsmore.

As well as training, the academy will take footballers to Dean Court where they will continue FA coaching studies and attend workshops on nutrition, performance analysis, training and physiotherapy.

Principal Ruth Johnson said: “We are thrilled to be able to enter this new partnership with a Championship club and offer a comprehensive programme, from Bournemouth, for our sixth form pupils.”

The Whites will continue working with the academy until the end of the season.