Community

College educates footballers in the Malaysian rainforest

Published

10 years ago

May 23, 2014

PEMBROKESHIRE COLLEGE has been recruiting international students for over twenty years. From the United Arab Emirates, China and Hong Kong, the usual countries that educational institutions recruit from – but the rainforest in Malaysia, now this must surely be a first!

Travel one hour east of Kuala Lumpur to Janda Baik and you will find yourself in the heart of a tropical rainforest where your senses will be overwhelmed by the vibrancy of the tropical flora and fauna and the undeniable scent of Durian (the only fruit banned by most hotels in South East Asia).

However, what you won’t be expecting to stumble across in this tropical setting is a 12-acre clearing, 600–800 meters above sea level – the home to a modern floodlit football academy.

Frenz Football Academy opened its doors in 2011 to offer young and talented Malaysian footballers the opportunity to develop their sporting prowess alongside achieving academic qualifications.

“The emphasis on a robust educational programme is what makes the club stand apart from so many other sports academies. Our vision is to revive Malaysian football to international standards. We believe a solid professional football training program coupled with quality education will get us world-class football champions from among our youth,” said Sopiah Suid, Director of Education at Frenz.

Although situated 7,000 miles away in west Wales, Pembrokeshire College developed a bespoke package for privately owned Frenz Football Academy. The students, who are fully sponsored, are able to commence on a bridging programme that focuses on English reading, writing and study skills; strong students’ progress directly onto blended iGCSE subjects (online and classroom based) and others to a preparation for iGCSE programme.

Pembrokeshire College worked closely with the Academy to develop a blended learning programme that took into account the demands of a rapidly developing football team at a time when they were starting to be recognised by the Malaysian football league as a serious squad with big ambitions.

Alongside playing matches at home and abroad, hosting friendly games with clubs such as Liverpool u18s, and being coached by world-class footballers including Steve McManaman, the boys have been more than eager to put some of their energy into their studies. McManaman is the Frenz Academy technical advisor whose main focus is to scout for young talent, across Malaysia and Indonesia for the club.

“The opportunity to transport the benefits of a British education from one remote corner of the earth to another has been both challenging and rewarding; we feel privileged to be part of such an exciting project,” said Hayley Williams, International, Pembrokeshire College.

Frenz now have plans to expand their football philosophy to Indonesia with a little help from their friends at Pembrokeshire College.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

10 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

19 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

21 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.