Central YMCA Football Academy

We have partnered with a number of Football Clubs across the UK to offer players between 16-19 years of age with an outstanding fully-funded education programme to go alongside high performing, professional football training.

This is the chance for you to train and play like a pro with expert coaches whilst studying towards a substantial qualification. Learners are expected to put in as much work academically as they do on the pitch, ensuring they are on the right path to establishing themselves in the industry.

1. Football training: You will work on your game while being coached by expert coaches.
2. Your qualification: Study towards a Level 2 or Level 3 diploma to guarantee you keep your options open in the industry
3. Personal and professional development: The programme is enhanced with a series of activities and tutorials that might range from CV writing to nutrition advice or planning how to rent your first flat.
4. Maths and English: If you have not yet achieved a grade 4-9 (formerly A+ - C) in GCSE Maths and/or English, you will continue to study these subjects at your level.
5. Outstanding support: We will give you full support with a wide range of education and welfare needs and you will learn in a friendly, positive and supportive environment.

Our Football academies offer clear routes to semi-professional and professional football, as well as University. 

With football becoming an industry about more than just the players, we work closely with learners to identify areas of interest off the pitch, then guide them towards the job role within football that matches that interest. Your career could include Coaching, Scouting, Physiotherapy, Personal Training and many more.  

Leeds: Yorkshire Amateurs Football Club

Manchester: College of Rugby at Whitefield

Stalybridge: Stalybridge Celtic FC

Stockport: Reddish Football Club

Wimborne: Wimborne Town FC