Walsall Football Club

The award celebrates Walsall Football Club’s partnership with Pilot IMS, which is helping unemployed adults in Walsall and the Black Country gain recognised qualifications and progress into matchday roles. The programme gives learners practical skills in communication, teamwork and customer service, plus the confidence to take their next step. Of the 81 people who joined the programme, almost all completed it and seven in ten moved into jobs. The club alongside Pilot IMS is also making a deliberate effort to help more women enter the security workforce where they are under-represented.

The Get the Nation Learning Awards are part of Get the Nation Learning Week, running from 2–6 November. Led by Learning and Work Institute and backed by more than 230 organisations, the Get the Nation Learning campaign celebrates the power of lifelong learning to change lives, strengthen communities and support better work.

Bryan Taylor, Head of Venues and Safety at Walsall Football Club, said:
“Winning this award is a proud moment for everyone at Walsall Football Club. From the outset, our aim was to develop a workforce model that not only supports the operational needs of the club but also creates meaningful opportunities for people within our local community.

“Through our partnership with Pilot IMS, we have been able to provide residents with access to training, recognised qualifications, and clear pathways into sustainable employment. The impact has been significant, helping individuals build confidence, develop valuable skills, and progress into meaningful careers, while enabling the club to benefit from a highly skilled, professional, and committed local workforce.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to the principles of Security, Safety and Service. By investing in people and raising standards across our workforce, we have enhanced the matchday experience for supporters while creating lasting social value within our community.

“We are passionate about using the club’s position at the heart of the community to make a positive difference. This award is recognition of the collective efforts, dedication, and collaboration of everyone involved in turning that vision into a reality, and we look forward to building on this success in the years ahead.”

Stephen Evans, Chief Executive of Learning and Work Institute, said:
“We are thrilled that Walsall Football Club is the winner of the Get the Nation Learning 2026 Talent is Everywhere Award. They provide a shining example of employer training that provides real benefits to the local community and to adults who need support to enter or progress in work. The club demonstrates how employers can transform their workforce strategy while having a lasting difference in their community. It’s a real privilege to celebrate their achievements at the 2026 Get the Nation Learning Awards.”

Jenny Pelling, Director of Skills and Strategy at Kaplan, said:
“Unlocking potential through adult learning is vital, not just for individual careers, but for regional growth. Walsall Football Club’s initiative is a fantastic example of how targeted skills training can build confidence, break down systemic barriers, and connect local people directly to job opportunities. At Kaplan, we are proud to sponsor the ‘Talent is Everywhere’ award and celebrate an employer making such a tangible, positive difference in its local area.”

David Gaughan, Director of Employment and Skills at West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), said:
“This award is fantastic recognition for Walsall Football Club and Pilot IMS and demonstrates the difference that innovative, employer-led skills provision can make. WMCA is proud to support Pilot IMS and approaches that break down barriers, build confidence and create genuine routes into sustainable employment for local people. We’re also proud supporters of the Get the Nation Learning campaign”.