Sheffield Hallam’s new ‘study and play’ programme combines degree with elite football training

An innovative ‘study and play’ programme that combines degree-level study with elite football training, has been launched through a new partnership between Sheffield Hallam University and Inspire Development Academy (IDA)

Press contact: Rebecca Ferguson | r.ferguson@shu.ac.uk 

The programme, launching for the new academic year in September 2026, will enable students to study undergraduate and postgraduate courses at Sheffield Hallam, while training in a professional-standard football environment delivered by IDA, a Sheffield-based academy with a growing international profile. 

Open to students across a wide range of academic disciplines, the new pathway has been designed for ambitious UK and international student-athletes keen to progress within the professional game, or wider careers across the global football and sports industry. 

The partnership aims to meet the growing global demand for ‘dual pathway’ opportunities for students, combining a high-quality university education with elite, performance-level football development. 

Under the partnership, students-athletes will be fully enrolled at Sheffield Hallam University, with access to its academic programmes and student support services, alongside training with IDA at a sporting environment designed to mirror the professional game, with access to strength and conditioning, sports science support and high-quality training facilities across Sheffield.


Football teams play a match at the Sheffield Hallam University Sports Park pitches.

IDA specialises in delivering integrated education and football pathways, offering full-time, professional-style training led by UEFA-licensed coaches. Students on the programme will benefit from a structured competitive season, including showcase fixtures, performance analysis, and individual development planning alongside their academic studies. 

Dr Ruth Crabtree, Head of the School of Sport and Physical Activity, said: “Our partnership with IDA, will allow student-athletes to study whilst balancing their training and competition needs, and the partnership perfectly reflects the educational ethos at Hallam. 

“Applied learning is at the heart of what we offer at Hallam, to maximise future career opportunities and success, and provide a flexible approach that allows students from across the globe to gain a degree with a recognised world leading sport University.” 

Spencer Taylor, Managing Director of IDA said: “Our partnership with Sheffield Hallam University reflects exactly what IDA stands for: elite football development supported by meaningful academic pathways. 

“Hallam’s commitment to applied learning and student success aligns perfectly with our vision of developing well-rounded young people who can thrive on the pitch and in the classroom. Together, we’re creating a pathway that gives ambitious players the chance to train at a high level while pursuing a degree that opens doors for their future.” 

The partnership showcases Sheffield’s position as a leading destination for sport and education, combining degree study with access to elite training environments and competitive match play. 
 
The first cohort of students will begin their academic studies and football training in autumn 2026. To find out more, visit: Football & Education Programmes | IDA