A new partnership between Norwich City’s Regional Development Programme and King’s Ely has been launched – and is the first of its kind for Cambridgeshire.

The new partnership will see students benefitting from a number of RDP schemes, including children’s community programmes and youth development player pathways in the Ely area.

But the hub will also benefit children from other schools across the Ely area as the RDP develops its community outreach and continues to develop a strong link with Ely College, where the current Football & Education 16-19 programme takes place.

Alex Kaufman, who heads up Norwich City’s Regional Development Programme in Cambridgeshire, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with King’s Ely and match the ambitions of both ourselves and the school by developing young people through creativity and learning.

“The facilities King’s Ely have are fantastic and we are pleased to be able to use these on a weekly basis to reach out to the community. As we progress, we will be supporting King’s Ely further and look forward to working with a number of the pupils at the school.”

Ben Edmondson, director of sport at King’s Ely, said: “The Community Hub Partnership with the regional programme is a fantastic opportunity for all parties concerned and for the larger Cambridgeshire community. Alex and his team will benefit from the array and quality of facilities at King’s Ely whilst we benefit from the high level coaching and in depth input into our football programme.

“A major bonus will be for the community, with both King’s Ely and the RDP developing opportunities and competitions for local schools and children to take part in and develop footballing skills and involvement. The RDP staff and community have been a pleasure to work with on this deal and we envisage a long and prosperous partnership helping to drive football in Cambridgeshire.”