Poised to start in September, the program – created in partnership with the Institute of Football Academy (IOF Academy) – will offer domestic and international students aged 13-19 the chance to combine top-tier academics with professional-level football training.
Participants will follow a dual pathway, balancing rigorous academic qualifications – including GCSEs, A-Levels, and the NCUK Foundation qualifications – with advanced football coaching through a tailored player development curriculum.
As part of the experience, Abbotsholme School students can work towards official FA coaching and scouting certifications, opening doors to careers in football on and off the pitch, including roles in coaching, scouting, sports science, media, and more. The program will also provide expert guidance and preparation for US university sports scholarship placements.
The IOF Academy, co-founded in 2007, has helped over 100 players sign with professional clubs and supported over 1,000 players in securing soccer scholarships at top universities in the US and beyond.
Russ Hullett, IOF Academy co-founder as well as a former coach and scout for major clubs including Manchester United and Aston Villa, said: “We’re committed to delivering a professional academy-style experience for every player.
“This program is about creating real opportunities, whether you’re dreaming of a career on the field or aiming to thrive in the global sports industry.”
This program is about creating real opportunities, whether you’re dreaming of a career on the field or aiming to thrive in the global sports industry
Russ Hullett, IOF Academy
Matthew Hird, chief international officer at Abbotsholme School said the partnership would allow the school to “offer elite football coaching alongside our first-class academic provision”.
“It’s about inspiring young footballers on their journey into futures in sport,” he said.
Students enrolled in the program will join Abbotsholme either as day pupils or full boarders. As part of the experience, they will represent the newly established IOF Mavericks Football Club, which will be based on-site, and benefit from training in a professional, academy-style environment.
The school’s campus includes extensive sports facilities such as a full-size 3G pitch, FIFA-standard natural grass pitches, and a high-performance strength and conditioning centre. Combined with Abbotsholme’s experienced EAL support and strong home-away-from-home care, the school aims to offer a comprehensive environment where student-athletes can thrive both academically and athletically.
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