This case study follows Zak Clarke-Quinn’s progression from Reading FC Community Trust’s SEND study programme into mentoring and personal training.
Background
Zak was diagnosed with anxiety and depression while at school.
In 2019, he joined Reading FC Community Trust through its SEND study programme.
Education and Experience
Zak studied for an NCFE Level 2 qualification in Sport and Employability Skills.
While studying, he worked alongside Community Trust coaches and helped deliver the Trust’s SEND camps.
Progression into Mentoring
In August 2022, Zak progressed into the role of Community Trust mentor.
In this role, he supports a young autistic person by teaching him life skills. Zak also works with SEND students through the Community Trust.
Personal Training
Alongside his work with Reading FC Community Trust, Zak runs his own personal-training business, ZCQ Coaching, on a part-time basis.
Through the business, he helps more than 20 clients each week with health-related needs.
“I love my job. To think I am helping people become better is a great feeling for me. Working for the Community Trust makes me feel like I am really making a difference.”
Community Captain
Each year, the Premier League Charitable Fund asks Club Community Organisations to nominate a Community Captain.
Reading FC Community Trust presented Zak with its 2024 Community Captain award.
The Trust described Zak as a role model whose progress demonstrates that success can come from adversity through hard work and dedication.
Impact
Zak’s journey includes:
- Joining the SEND study programme in 2019
- Studying for an NCFE Level 2 qualification
- Helping Community Trust coaches deliver SEND camps
- Progressing into a Community Trust mentoring role
- Teaching life skills to a young autistic person
- Working with SEND students
- Establishing his own personal-training business
- Supporting more than 20 clients each week
- Receiving the 2024 Community Captain award
Conclusion
Zak has progressed from studying with Reading FC Community Trust to working as a mentor and running his own personal-training business.
He now uses his experience to support other people through mentoring, SEND work and personal training.