Walsall Adult and Community College (WACC) is to launch a virtual sports academy for 16-to-18-year-olds in partnership with Walsall Football Club (WFC) and other providers.

WACC Sports Academy will commence in January 2012 and aims to provide local young people with a six-month vocational and practical course in a sports-related environment.

The full-time initiative is aimed at those currently not in employment, education or training, with qualifications to include a City and Guilds Level 2 Certificate in Sports.

A National Pool Lifeguard Qualification, a Level 1 Sports Leaders Award and the chance to improve literacy and numeracy skills will also be available as part of the course.

Students who complete the course will be able to seek apprenticeship opportunities for full-time employment as lifeguards, personal trainers or other leisure-related positions.

WACC principal Maria Gilling said: "The WACC Sports Academy programme will inspire young people to consider the many varied and exciting opportunities in sport, especially in the run-up to London 2012."

Details: www.walsall.gov.uk