It’s been a successful first year on the tennis court for Barnet and Southgate College after they linked up with the Tennis Foundation.

The Foundation, Great Britain’s leading tennis charity, supported 45 colleges across the country to help people play and take up tennis.

Around 780 students have participated in the sport, LTA Mini Tennis and cardio tennis nationally, while links have been established with local tennis venues.

James Edgerley, sports development and commercial officer at Barnet and Southgate College, said: “As a result of the relationship and support, we’ve been able to offer coach education in Tennis (Level 1) for the first time and we’ve had a 100 per cent pass rate in the courses run thus far.

“In addition, all of the enrolees had never previously participated to any great degree in the game and are now starting to participate in their own time.

“Through their Level 1 voluntary hours, nearly all have been offered an employment opportunity at the local tennis club or venue as a result,” Edgerley added.

More colleges will be supported in the 2012-13 academic year as the Tennis Foundation looks for new ways to grow the number of young people participating, competing, volunteering and coaching.

For more information, visit www.tennisfoundation.org.uk/furthereducation.