Ipswich Town to offer football placements

Ipswich Town has teamed up with its local university to allow students to gain work experience behind the scenes at a professional football club.

The University of Suffolk has been announced as a partner of the Tractor Boys for a three-and-a-half-year period.

During this time, students would be able to expand their skillset at Portman Road, and the university’s branding would be visible at the ground.

Ipswich Town's chief executive, Mark Ashton, said he was “delighted” by the chance to offer placements to students.

He added: “Both the football club and university share many of the same values and both take great pride in showcasing the best of our county to the wider world, which we both believe to be a vital part of our roles within our community.”

Prof Gurpreet Jagpal, vice chancellor for business and entrepreneurship at the university, said it had "a central role to play in building the success and community of Ipswich and Suffolk and we are proud to support our county’s leading football club".

"Our work with businesses is key to the area’s economic success and our partnership with the football club will also provide opportunities for our students," he added.

Katie Pickard, students’ union president of activities and wellbeing, said it was “incredibly important” for the university to collaborate with local businesses to ensure success for the town.

“The university and the football club are massive selling points of Ipswich and it’s great we can work together in promoting Ipswich,” she said.

“Not only will this partnership be beneficial for current students and staff, it’s a great selling point to attract future students as well.

"The fact our students will get to work with Ipswich Town FC for their placements is an incredible opportunity.”

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