Plantsbrook School pupils got kick out of a visit the home of the England football team, when they sampled life as an elite footballer.

Year 12 BTEC Sport students at the school – which is part of the Broadleaf Partnership Trust – were put through their paces on cutting-edge fitness equipment at St George’s Park, the base of the Three Lions.

PE teacher Justin Hunter, who organised the trip, said: “A lot of our pupils who attended are keen footballers, so were excited to see the England team set up.

“We got a tour of the venue, seeing the extent of their outdoor grass and artificial pitches, the replica Wembley pitches, the rehabilitation and assessments suites, the gym and the indoor athletics track.”

As part of their BTEC Sport coursework, students learn about fitness testing, while also developing their confidence and ability to assess the fitness of potential clients. 

The visit to St George’s Park, organised with Game Changer Performance, let them see how elite players are tested – as well as being assessed themselves on the high-tech equipment.

And as the students tucked into lunch in a boardroom, they even spotted England manager Gareth Southgate in a meeting next door.

Mr Hunter said: “The pupils had the opportunity to participate in aerobic, speed and agility based assessments working using laser gates, iPads and specialist equipment on the outside 4G pitches.

“After this they experienced a recovery session which involved pool-based work, underwater treadmill, hot tub and cold water treatments. The theory and concepts of recovery and nutrition were discussed and how the England football team individualise their recovery.

“I hope the pupils were inspired by what they have seen, to see potential future career pathways as well as developing their confidence and skills.”

Headteacher Jason Farr added: “Visiting the home of the England football team is not only an exciting day out, it also gives our Sports BTEC students a very valuable insight into the sports industry, at the very highest level.”

Pictured: Plantsbrook School sports students at the home of the England football team