Icon Training has become the UK's first sport training provider to be given the go-ahead by the Education Funding Agency to provide its Ofsted Grade 1 training to 16- and 17-year-olds.

The new programme will be specifically designed for foundation learners looking to work as sports coaches, fitness instructors or lifeguards.

The 36-week course will comprise four level 1 compulsory subjects and two level 2 qualifications.

Mac Cleves, Icon Training's managing director, said: "Students enrolling on the unique Foundation course will spend one day in the classroom and another on placement in a relevant workplace to put their theory into practice.

"These personalised programmes encourage young people, who may have previously disengaged with learning, to follow their aspirations and reach their full potential."