21st October 2026
Four BDC learners recently represented the College’s partner club, Hornchurch FC, in a senior Essex Cup fixture.
It was a proud moment in their football development and an experience they won’t forget.
Football Academy learners Ben Collison, Micheal Rhodes, James Mapp and Stefano Blankson described the opportunity as an honour and an experience they will never forget.
For James, a lifelong Hornchurch supporter alongside his family, pulling on the club’s shirt carried particular significance. He described the match as the best experience he had ever had and one of the best nights of his life.
Stefano also reflected on how special it was to have his family watching. He thanked his fellow College players for their good-luck messages before the fixture and congratulations afterwards.
Their selection sparked a wave of support from other learners in the College’s Football Academy, who shared their pride at seeing BDC players represent Hornchurch at senior level.
BDC first team coach Mark Holder said the four players had earned their selection through hard work and a positive attitude.
The opportunity highlights how the College’s partnership with Hornchurch FC can give young footballers valuable experience of the senior game, allowing them to put their skills into practice in a competitive club environment.
Dean Cutting, Curriculum Manager for Sports Academies & Step To Success at Barking & Dagenham College, said: “All of us from the College, and especially the Football Academy, are very proud of them and the way they have represented the College in such a positive way. But most importantly, we are proud of how they have represented themselves. They should be very proud.”
