Southampton FC Football Programmes announce Ryde School partnership

Southampton FC’s Football Programmes department has entered into a new partnership with Ryde School. The collaboration aims to improve the school's sporting provisions and create a clearer pathway for football development.

Located on the Isle of Wight, Ryde School intends to use this relationship to strengthen its football offering. The partnership will integrate Southampton FC’s coaching methodology into the school's existing sports curriculum. This initiative is designed to support both pupils and staff by delivering a sustainable Football Development Programme that aligns with the club's specific player development philosophy.

The agreement includes several key components for the school community. Staff members will receive ongoing support through coach education, while pupils will gain access to Southampton FC facilities, including the Staplewood Campus and St Mary’s Stadium. Additionally, the programme will provide insights into various career paths within the football industry, covering both on-pitch and off-pitch roles.

Tom Grevatt, the Head of Football Programmes at Southampton FC, stated that the partnership brings the "Southampton Way" into the school environment. He noted that the goal is to improve player development and the local football culture, potentially benefiting the wider Isle of Wight area.

Ryde School will also use this partnership to expand its sports scholarships, including football-specific options, starting in September for the next academic year. These scholarships will include both full and flexi boarding options for families. The school expects the collaboration to raise the professional and competitive standard of its football programme.

This partnership is part of Southampton FC's growing portfolio of Affiliate Partners, which works with various organisations to support their sporting ambitions. The collaboration seeks to combine elite player development expertise with the school's focus on nurturing well-rounded students.