THE Plymouth Argyle Community Trust Department is holding an open evening on Monday, March 15 for those interested in joining the Plymouth Argyle Education and Development Programme for the 2010/11 season.

The Football League supported Education and Development programme has been in existence for two years now and is aimed at school leavers and young people aged 16-19 years old.

The programme is a full-time course which combines education studies with full-time football training. The ethos is to nurture local footballers who may have drifted out of the game or failed to land an academy scholarship, whilst also giving students the opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications.

Argyle midfielder and ambassador of the Education and Development programme, Luke Summerfield, said: "The education programme is a fantastic opportunity for young people to stay involved in the beautiful game.

"It is an absolute privilege to be a professional footballer and something that has come from years of hard work. I urge all youngsters on the programme to work hard, train hard and reach your footballing goals.

"Even though my Dad played football and it was always my dream to follow in his footsteps, I was also encouraged to work hard at my education. This course provides an excellent combination of football and education, and enables students to have more than one string to their bow."

In recent years, the Education and Development programme has produced talented players who have trained with Plymouth Argyle Youth team and players who have even gone on to sign contracts with other professional clubs.

The event, held in the Home Park Boardroom, is the perfect opportunity to meet coaches Mark Rivers, Kevin Hodges and Mark Lovell as well as sports lecturers who will be able to advise on the academic element of the course.

If you are interested in attending the open evening, please contact the Community Office on 01752 562561 extension 162 or e-mail community@pafc.co.uk