Premier League partners with the Mayor of London for job creation and more

The Premier League has joined hands with the office of the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.

The two will launch a £1.2m partnership to establish a first-of-its-kind Stewarding Academy, which will offer training to thousands of football stewards with the aim of raising standards, improving safety, and creating jobs.

The Premier League and the London mayor’s office will launch the Stewarding Academy through Capital City College, providing training and creating career opportunities for stewards working at football clubs in London as well as those looking to enter the world of football.

The Stewarding Academy is set to be launched this summer and will work with London-based Premier League clubs in moving towards net-zero carbon emissions by promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

Clare Sumner, Chief Policy and Social Impact Officer of the Premier League, commented:

“There are more than 15 million visits to Premier League stadiums each season, and we work alongside partners and the police to deliver safe and inclusive matchdays across the country. Our partnership with the Mayor will further develop the fan experience as part of our nationwide work to elevate the stewarding profession. Through this partnership, we are providing new employment and training opportunities for thousands of people, contributing to the safe and welcoming environment provided at 380 matches each season.”

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, said:

“Football is at the heart of life in London and, with fans across the capital gripped by the game, I am delighted to partner with the Premier League, the most-watched domestic football league in the world, to launch this ground-breaking, first-of-its-kind Stewarding Academy as we look to create good jobs and raise standards for thousands of Londoners working in the football sector. Our new Stewarding Academy and wider partnership will deliver on my manifesto commitment to support these important workers, creating better jobs and opportunities for career progression. London is the sporting capital of the world and a global leader in major events and we are proud to work with the Premier League and our partners to build a safer and fairer city for everyone.”

Debbie Houghton, Group Principal Apprenticeships, Partnerships, and Innovation at Capital City College, added:

“We are proud to be delivering the Mayor and Premier League’s Stewarding Academy, and I am positive that this new cohort will play a vital role in creating safe, positive matchday experiences. Through our training courses, our students develop the skills and confidence to succeed as stewards at Premier League clubs across the country, and this year will be no different. From managing crowds to supporting football fans with ticket queries, directions and de-escalating situations, our stewards will be highly trained and ready for kick-off.”