New intake of drivers start revving up studies on unique talent programme

An elite sports development programme for aspiring race drivers has welcomed 21 new recruits at Loughborough College.

The College’s Enhanced Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) programme, run in partnership with Motorsport UK Academy, is a two-year programme which gives talented young drivers and co-drivers, who are serious about a career in motorsport, the opportunity to gain academic qualifications whilst competing

A total of 19 drivers are moving into their second year at the College which offers a specialised academic timetable to enable drivers to successfully balance their training with their academic studies. 

New for 2022, a BTEC Level 3 in eSports has been introduced in the suite of qualifications. This will provide an opportunity to put technical and tactical theory and learnings into practice, whilst ensuring transferability of performance principles between digital and real-world driving.

Alex Fletcher, a dedicated motorsport engineering lecturer at College, said: “We’re delighted to continue our unique partnership with Motorsport UK to support and develop the next generation of potential motor racing stars.

“We have a fantastic track record of helping young drivers balance academic study with the gruelling demands of competition and we can’t wait to start helping our new students and see where this journey takes them.” 

Katie Baldwin, Competitors Pathway Manager at Motorsport UK, said: “Once again we had a record number of applications this year, so the selection process was incredibly tough. The programme will give an opportunity for drivers to build and work on developing all areas of their motorsport performance.   

“Congratulations to all the drivers who have been selected and we look forward to supporting them all in their motorsport journey.”