Buckinghamshire College Group Teams Up with Future Pro Football Academy to Launch Elite Sports Pathway 

Buckinghamshire College Group is excited to announce a new partnership with Future Pro Football Academy (FPF Academy), launching at the Wycombe Campus. This collaboration will provide students aged 16–19 with the unique opportunity to combine their education with elite football development. The partnership introduces a Football Academy Pathway alongside the Level 2 Sports Coaching and Level 3 Sports & Physical Activity programmes. Learners will study towards recognised qualifications while training and competing in a professional, academy-style football environment. 

The academy will provide structured football development for both boys and girls, offering an inclusive pathway for motivated students to progress in football alongside their education. Squads will compete in appropriate leagues, delivering a high-quality and competitive playing programme for all participants. Learners selected for the academy will take part in two to three football training sessions per week during college hours and represent the academy in weekly league and cup fixtures, gaining valuable experience in competitive football. 

Matt Smith, Director of Future Pro Football Academy, said: 

“This partnership with Buckinghamshire College Group is a major step forward for FPF Academy. Our aim has always been to create genuine pathways that support young players both academically and athletically. By combining high-quality education with professional football training, we’re giving learners the environment, structure and support they need to progress, whether that’s into higher education, a career in sport or further football development.” 

FPF Academy has a proven track record in player development, with 30 players signing for professional clubs in the past 24 months, including Manchester United, Brentford, Crystal Palace, Luton Town, Oxford United, Queens Park Rangers, Fulham, MK Dons, Reading, Tottenham Hotspur, Watford, Stevenage, Arsenal, Brighton and West Ham United. The leadership team includes Director of Football Conrad Mukova, an Official Arsenal FC Scout, adding professional insight and talent identification expertise. 

Tom Donati, Head of Coaching at FPF Academy, added: 

“This programme mirrors the standards and expectations players experience in professional academy environments. We focus on developing the whole player — technically, tactically, physically and mentally — while ensuring education remains at the heart of the journey. For motivated learners, this is an outstanding platform to develop and prepare for the next stage.” 

The Football Academy is overseen by UEFA A Licensed Coach Tom Donati, who has previously worked within professional academies at Chelsea, Peterborough United, AFC Bournemouth and Exeter City, supported by a team of UEFA B Licensed coaches. 

Jenny Craig, Principal and CEO of Buckinghamshire College Group, commented: 

“This partnership represents an exciting new chapter for Buckinghamshire College Group. We are committed to creating opportunities that inspire and empower our learners, and this collaboration with Future Pro Football Academy does exactly that. By combining academic achievement with elite football training, we’re offering students a pathway that nurtures ambition, talent and personal growth, both on and off the pitch.” 

The Football Academy Pathway is available to students enrolled on Level 2 Sports Coaching or Level 3 Sports & Physical Activity programmes at Wycombe Campus. Students on other full-time courses may also be considered, subject to timetable compatibility and successful trial. Entry is based on trial performance, and learners may continue representing their local clubs alongside academy participation where appropriate. 

Together, Buckinghamshire College Group and Future Pro Football Academy are shaping the next generation of talent. For more information or to apply for the Football Academy Pathway, visit buckscollegegroup.ac.uk