Craig Gardner dug deep into Blues' Football and Education Programme on Tuesday, as part of the Premier League Places for Players initiative.

The Blues midfielder took time out before and after training to find out more about the unique community scheme belonging to Birmingham City Football Club.

The Football and Education Programme is a ground-breaking project for school leavers (16-19), funded by the Premier League, PFA Community Fund and Shenley Academy. The full time course is designed to nurture local talent and ensure young people are able to continue their sport at a high level without compromising their education.

Craig was on hand to meet the 64 pupils enrolled onto the course at Blues' Wast Hills training base in the morning before participating in a classroom lesson at St. Andrew's in the afternoon. After the lecture a short trip to Wyndcliffe Primary School was undertaken where the midfielder assessed a coaching session from one of the pupils on the course.

"Birmingham are brilliant in the community," Gardner told bcfc.com

"The scheme is good for the community and for the lads who didn't make the grade.

"It's great for the club and for the young lads as it makes them feel part of the club. The club could have said thanks see you later but they have offered them a coaching role and academic qualifications. I think it's absolutely great and all credit to Birmingham City."