South Shields FC Takeover Project Receives National Recognition for Outstanding Careers Development Practice

Epinay School in South Shields has been recognised nationally for its exceptional careers education work after being named the winner of the Experiences of the Workplace Award at the CDI Careers Education Awards 2026 – one of the highest accolades for careers professionals in England.  

Sponsored by the Careers & Enterprise Company, the awards celebrate outstanding achievements in careers development practice across primary, secondary and special schools, colleges, sixth forms and training providers.

Headteacher and former South Shields FC player, Chris Rue said:

"The judging panel praised Epinay School for delivering high‑quality, innovative workplace experiences that prepare young people for their future. The flagship initiative – the South Shields FC Takeover Project – stood out as a national example of best practice."

During the Takeover week, students assume real operational roles across South Shields Football Club in the build-up to an Enterprise National League match day event, gaining hands‑on experience in a wide range of careers. Students have taken on roles such as:

• Hospitality students serving breakfast to players

• Sports students leading a training session with the first team

• Horticulture students maintaining the stadium and training facilities

• Media and IT students designing the matchday programme cover and writing editorial content

  
  

Steve Camm, South Shields FC Foundation Operations Manager, said:

"This immersive programme has now become an annual tradition and is a central strand of the charitable Foundation's work to support employability. In the last five years it has given hundreds of students meaningful exposure to the world of work, strengthening the club’s community impact."

The CDI Careers Education Awards recognise excellence across three categories, including Experiences of the Workplace, which is for institutions offering high‑quality, early, and progressive workplace experiences that deepen students’ understanding of employment pathways.

Epinay School was named National Winner in the Experiences of the Workplace category for its outstanding partnership with South Shields FC and its innovative approach to real‑world learning.