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Beechwood School has launched a unique Elite Football Programme that unites footballing and academic excellence.

The Elite Football Programme launched this month in October 2022, for entry in September 2023. It offers places for boys and girls in each academic year, with limited scholarships available for selected talented or academically gifted pupils.

The programme is open to talented footballers who also want to focus on their academic education. It welcomes day pupils from Kent and surrounding areas, as well as British and international boarding pupils.

Offering an integrated timetable for football training and academic tuition that is tailor-made for each child.

Within an environment that rivals professional football academies with cutting edge sport science and performance analysis, outstanding facilities and highly qualified staff with vast experience in football development.

With a proven track record of successful outcomes, with boy and girl pupils achieving international soccer scholarships, gaining places at top UK universities, playing for professional clubs, and winning international caps.

“We are excited to be launching the Elite Football Programme at Beechwood,” said Headmaster Justin Foster-Gandey.

“We are looking for students who will thrive not only from the football coaching but from our small classes, nurturing pastoral care and full academic rigour. I believe the programme will nurture well rounded young people and give them a chance to enhance their skills in an area they love.”

Top coaching talent

Greg Thurstans is the Director of Football and has over 20 years-experience in teaching within independent education and was a coach at Crystal Palace Academy, England Independent Schools national U16/18 teams and scout for Brighton & Hove Albion FC. He emphasised the unique strengths of the new programme.

“There are numerous programmes that can cater for high level education and pastoral support. There are also numerous programmes that can offer high level elite football development. We can offer both and have a proven track record for successful outcomes for girls and boys.”

Matthew Rose, Head of Coaching & Player Development, has over 25 years-experience in professional football including playing for Arsenal and QPR. He has extensive experience in coaching including implementing training regimes specific to the needs of developing young players.

He said, “This is a program designed to develop the individual and give them the skills needed to make the next step in their career. Hopefully we will be an important part of a player’s journey from Beechwood to professional footballer.”

Proven success in footballing excellence

The Elite Football Programme has strong relationships with club scouts and international college scholarships, allowing young and talented footballers to develop their skills and drive their careers. “Previous players coached by Greg Thurstans at Royal Russell School include Rhys Norrington-Davies, who has represented Wales and Sheffield Utd FC and Reanna Blades who has played for England and Chelsea FC. “My talent was recognised, and I was put forward to play professionally,” commented Reanna.

“The staff understood the importance of balancing both football and education and were willing to help and support me throughout my jou

“Echoing that sentiment is Rhys who adds, this was the best decision I ever made and led to me achieving 3 A-levels, a professional contract at Sheffield Utd FC and living my dream of playing for Wales in major international tournaments at the European Championships and World Cup.”

For a guided tour call +44 1892 532747 or email registar@beechwood.org.uk - alternatively, click here to learn more about the Elite Football Programme at Beechwood School.