Inspirational learner Posted on 21 March 2022 Sam Acres, VLUK learner at our Beaconsfield campus, is a true inspiration to not only everyone at his own campus but also to all our learners and staff. With a true passion for football and the motivation and drive to ensure he achieves his life goals, Sam hasn't let a disability interfere with his future plans. Growing up in a family of football enthusiasts made it impossible for Sam not to catch the bug. His love of the beautiful game started with a visit to Wealdstone FC when he was 7 years old and from there the interest has just grown. However, Sam always knew that he could never become a footballer himself, having been born with Cerebal Palsy which affects his entire body, but in November 2020 he took a punt and emailed our Beaconsfield Campus to explain that he wanted a place on their academy programme. In September 2021 Sam started on our BTEC Level 3 in Sport Coaching and Development which includes modules on fitness, coaching, nutrition and he's meeting every goal (no pun intended) along the way. Sam has been fully accepted by all the other learners on the course and the tutor team at Beaconsfield are delighted with his progress and passion for learning. Beaconsfield teaching assistant, Stacey Odeyale, commented "Sam is a fantastic student, he has such an inspiring outlook on life, he is highly motivated and is eager to break down the barriers that people with disabilities face in the sporting industry. He has an infectious personality and is a huge part of the Beaconsfield campus". Sam has recently written an interesting article relating to his background, experience of the course so far and life ambitions. Check it out at https://www.wheresthebar.co.uk/.