A teenager from Essex is hoping his career takes off by swapping football for flying.

Kyle Arch, 18, from Colchester has just completed a business diploma at Suffolk New College.

His course is run alongside the Ipswich Town Foundation education programme so he gets to play football as well as study.

Keeper - Kyle will be leaving behind football to chase his dreamKeeper - Kyle will be leaving footballbehind to chase his dream (Image: John Nice)

During his two years in Ipswich, Kyle played on the hallowed Portman Road turf in a friendly match between staff and students.

Now he has decided to trade the football pitch for the runway, by moving to America with the aim of becoming an airline pilot.

Happy - Kyle is delighted to be going to America to chase his dreamHappy - Kyle is delighted to be going to America to chase his dream (Image: John Nice)

He will shortly be travelling to New Hampshire, where his dad lives to follow his lifelong flying dream.

Staying at his dad's he will be travelling from New Hampshire to Boston to begin flight school.

Kyle said: “I really enjoyed the course, the people, the staff and the football - it’s just been a great experience.

"The staff are amazing, they are always there for you.”

Speaking of his career move, Kyle said: “I’m going to the ATP flight school and will be training in a place called Norwood, in Boston.

"I used to go there and plane spot as a child as my dad lives in America.

"It will be really cool. I’ve never flown before, but my dad used to have a dream to be in the RAF, so I guess that is where some of the interest has come from.

“It is just something I’ve always loved.

"I like the thrill of being able to control something that big, and knowing I’m going to be responsible for those passengers and make it the best experience I can for them is exciting.

"I’ve always thought nothing is impossible. If you want something it doesn’t matter what you have to sacrifice, you should go and do it and there is nothing in this world that can stop you.”

Business tutor Ashleigh Hurrell said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for Kyle who is showing amazing determination to follow his dreams.”

Robert Peace, of the Ipswich Town Foundation, said: “This is a great progression opportunity for Kyle.

"It shows the diverse opportunities for students studying on the business course. We wish him all the success for the future.”