The
Tettenhall College International Football Academy
"Football is played with your head. Your feet are just the tools"
Andrea Pirlo
THE TETTENHALL COLLEGE INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY
in global partnership with Wolverhampton Wanderers FC
The Tettenhall College International Football Academy is an outstanding opportunity for day and boarding pupils at this leading independent school to combine an excellent academic programme with a high-level football pathway.
The Academy is designed for aspiring and ambitious players aged 7 - 18, both boys and girls, who are serious about their game and about their education The school provides a fully integrated footballing programme that does not compromise the academic endeavours of the pupil. Both are of significant importance.
Both Tettenhall College & Wolverhampton Wanderers are historic institutions within the local area of Wolverhampton, the West Midlands and more broadly the United Kingdom Tettenhall College (TC) was founded in 1863, and just 14 years later in 1877, Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves) was founded, just ahead of the formation of the Football League, of which it was a founding member.
The Tettenhall College International Football Academy brings these two very important organisations together to deliver structured, age appropriate pathways which evolve with the pupil through each year of school. These pathways are designed to nurture potential and unlock performance both on and off the pitch.
The school’s 33-acre site is located within a 6-minute drive of the Wolves training centre at Compton Park, whilst the club’s training facilities are within clear view of our boarding houses.
The school is home to an excellent range of facilities including grass pitches, indoor swimming pool, fitness suite (Sept 26), all weather MUGA pitch with floodlights, sports hall and additional facilities such as squash courts. Close by we have access to Hamilton’s Leisure, a new multi-million pound facility with 3G floodlit performance pitch.
During the programme, Academy members will have opportunities to play at Compton Park, the training ground for Wolverhampton Wanderers FC There will also be a range of experience trips with options including a Wembley Stadium Tour, a training day at St George’s Park and visits to live Premier League Games (additional charges for trips will apply).
Luke Rawlings - Old Tettenhallian 2024 U21 Midfield player for Wolverhampton Wanderers FC England U18
TETTENHALL COLLEGE
Tettenhall College is a historic co-educational day and boarding school for around 500 pupils aged 2 – 18 years. Whilst the majority of the pupils come from the local area (c 78%), it also has a vibrant international community, with around 100 boarding pupils (22% of the school population) coming from more than 25 different countries, as well as the UK. These currently include: Brazil, Mexico, China, Germany, France, Italy, Chile, Argentina, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Nigeria, Ghana, South Korea, Blugaria, Kazakhstan, Norway, Turkey and many more.
The College offers an active, wide ranging and successful programme of sport, with football remaining one of the most popular options. Whilst traditionally this has been offered to boys, the College is seeing a significant increase in participation from girls, many of whom are playing at a high level.
The College strongly believes in opportunities for all pupils to participate and represent their school, whatever their level. However, the are a notable number of talented pupils, both boys and girls, who belong to academy level programmes across the Midlands area, including those at Wolves, Birmingham City, Aston Villa, and Kidderminster. The Tettenhall College International Football Academy works to integrate with a player’s current club to ensure a consistent and effective approach
Pastoral Car
Subject Specialist Teachers
Small Class Sizes
CORE VALUES & PRINCIPLES
Both Tettenhall College and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC are institutions rooted in values that underpin their work, both on and off the pitch, in and out of the classrooms.
As a Premier League football club, Wolves is driven by progression and the values of determination, humility and togetherness, along with the belief that these values can empower people to lead better lives.
Tettenhall College is ambitious for every single young learner, with an unwavering commitment to the combined and uncompromising delivery of Excellence and Care.
WOLVERHAMPTONWANDERERS:
Progression:Acommitmenttoconstantdevelopmentandmoving forward.
Determination:Astrongworkethic,ownership,anddecisiveness.
Humility:Agroundedapproach,despitesuccess.
Unity:Asenseoftogethernessandcollectiveeffort,bothonandoff thepitch.
Brightness:Agoaltoinspireandhaveapositiveoutlook.
TETTENHALL COLLEGE:
Ambition: Striving for Excellence - more than personal success - the drive to make a difference.
Character: The Bedrock of Integrity - the foundation upon which lifelong success is built.
Community: Strength in Unity - a school does not exist in isolation; it is deeply intertwined with the community it serves.
Opportunity: Unlocking Potential - the gateway to success, regardless of background
Creativity: We have the freedom - a value that shapes the way we learn and grow together.
THE ACADEMY PATHWAY PROGRAMME
DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY
YEARS 3 - 5 (AGES 7 - 10)
Delivered by UEFA-qualified coaches, our junior development pathway focuses on building strong technical foundations within a structured, age-appropriate development syllabus.
Weekly after-school training sessions (once per week)
Weekly school time training session with Wolves coaches (once per week)
A professionally designed development curriculum aligned with grassroots best practice
Competitive school fixtures, including: Arranged friendlies
Grassroots fixtures against develop Opportunities to play against profe pre-academy environments
Emphasis on enjoyment, skill developm and game understanding in line with grassroots principles, where early experiences are key to long-term engagement and progression.
Wear the International Football Acade
Option to be selected to attend the Gothia
ACADEMY PATHWAY
YEARS 6 - 10 (AGES 10 - 15)
At Tettenhall College, the Academy Pathway lays the foundation for future success - blending technical development, tactical understanding, a focus on personal fitness, and a strong academic core. Our senior school programme provides a high-performance football environment, designed to mirror professional academy standards
Delivered by UEFA-qualified coaches, following an advanced professional development syllabus: Two after-school training sessions per week
Weekly school time training with Wolves coaches (2 hours per week)
Regular competitive fixtures, including:
idweek school games against independent schools
ntry into ISFA competitions
iendlies against visiting national and international opposition
nced player development opportunities
ss to football academy guest speakers and erclass sessions
h analysis and performance review
dual Learning Plan (ILP) programme tailored to each player
rtunities to attend Wolves FC fixtures during the season
the International Football Academy kit
be selected to attend the Gothia Youth World Cup
ELITE PATHWAY YEARS 11 - 13 (AGES
15 - 19)
From Year 11 at Tettenhall College, pupils step up into the Elite Pathway and begin a threeyear journey that combines high-level football development with an outstanding education
Be part of the Wolves FC family and philosophy.
Each player follows a personalised training schedule, averaging 12 hours of high ntensity coaching, training and fitness development each week. Along side this, there is a comprehensive schedule of league and friendly fixtures all designed to challenge, elevate and prepare athlete for the next level
High Intensity Technical Sessions with Wolves FC & All Stars coaches each weekfocused on individual development, typically leading up to a game
Tactical sessions with Wolves FC and All Stars coaches each week - the day before a match centred on squad preparation and game plans
Recovery sessions - lighter, low-intensity work the day after a game
Training sessions at Wolves Training Ground, Compton Park
One to two Match Days per week - a combination of league competitions and arranged friendlies
- Game Days: Wednesday and Saturday (typically)
- There will be additional match opportun ties through the season against professional academy sides across the region and international touring teams.
Opportunities to attend Wolves FC fixtures dur ng the season
Personalised strength & conditioning sessions
Professional sports psychology visualisation and goal setting
Wider exposure to football and the business of football through sessions with Wolves FC representatives
Wear the International Football Academy kit
Option to be selected to attend the Gothia Youth World Cup
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT
Players benefit from physical appraisal sessions at suitable intervals through the season, along with termly squad fitness assessments. Each player has their own Individual Action Plan, built around the Four Corner Model - covering the Physical, Psychological, Technical and Tactical elements of their game
PHYSICAL
PSYCHOLOGICAL
TECHNICAL
TACTICAL
PERFORMANCE SUPPORT
“It’s all about making sure every player knows exactly where they are, where they’re going, and how to get there”.
Cra g Bowker - Footbal Academy Director
Performance analysis sits at the heart of what we do. When it is paired with a personalised action plan, it becomes a really powerful tool - helping players pinpoint the specific areas of their game, that, when improved, make a tangible difference to their contribution within the team. In order to support the development process, each match will be filmed and reviewed, in order to support each players Individual Action Plan. In support of this, players have access to:
PHYSIOTHERAPY SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING SPORTS THERAPY
PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS
SPECIAL PLAYER MENU Nutrition for body & mind
ALL STARS SPORTS COACHING
All Stars Sports Coaching CIC is driven by a shared passion for developing both players and people through a humanistic approach.
From 1-to-1 sessions to group and team environments, the organisation is built on creating positive experiences that support confidence, mindset, and long-term growth.
At the heart of All Stars are three core values: putting the player first, ensuring every individual is supported and understood; building confidence through enjoyment, creating engaging environments where players can thrive; and a commitment to holistic development, focusing on both the person and the player.
Since its launch, All Stars has supported players in developing a growth mindset and progressing into professional academies and international pathways. This is further enhanced through a growing network of partnerships, including guest sessions from Mike Phelan, sports psychology support from Sabrina Dale, and ongoing collaboration with the Global Institute of Sport
The programme continues to expand its opportunities through collaboration with PSSA, providing potential pathways into US colleges and universities. Additionally, they work alongside the Black Country Coaches Club to offer qualifications that support employability and career development
Through these connections, and their extensive network within the professional game, All Stars Sports Coaching provides players with meaningful opportunities and clear pathways, supporting their journey from grassroots football into elite and alternative sporting environments
Craig Bowker - Football Academy Director
Craig began coaching in 2012 and holds a UEFA B Licence He has a MSc in Coaching and Performance Analysis from the Global Institute of Sport, where he has also supported lecturing within the coaching philosophy module. Alongside this, he is Head of Coaching at Sporting Khalsa FC, playing a key role in developing pathways and structures that have led to the club achieving a 3-Star FA Accreditation the highest level available for a non-league club. He also works with Staffordshire FA as a Coach Mentor, supporting coach development across the county.
Ian Bonnette - Assistant Academy Director
Ian is a UEFA B licensed Football Coach with over a decade of experience developing players from grassroots through to international level, having nurtured talent including the current England U16 girls' captain
As Founder and Lead Coach of All Star Sports Coaching CIC, he delivers age-appropriate football programmes across schools and community settings in the West Midlands, oversees safeguarding and quality assurance, and builds the partnerships that help young players thrive both socially and athletically. With a First-Class BSc in Football Coaching and Performance from the University of Wolverhampton, his approach is rooted in holistic player development.
TETTENHALL COLLEGE FACILITIES & LOCATION
Tettenhall College is an excellent school, located in the heart of England. The beautiful green and well-appointed campus is located in the picturesque and safe village of Tettenhall, with easy access to the high street with coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques and other services.
SUPERB CONNECTIVITY
Birmingham = 30 minutes
Manchester = 1 hour
Central London = 1 hour 45 minutes by direct train
London Heathrow = 2 hours 10 minutes
TheCollegeisblessedwithacomprehensiverangeofhigh-qualityfacilitieswhichinclude:
Specialistsciencelaboratories
Artroomsandstudiospaces
Classroomsforallsubjectareas withinteractivetechnologyboards
CollegeChapel
Beautifullibrary
ASixthFormstudycentre
CommonRooms,includinga dedicatedSixthFormcommonroom
Collegecoffeeshop
Uniformshop
TheTowersTheatre
MusicDepartmentandpracticerooms
Grandpianosandadditionalpracticepianos
Sportsfacilities,pitches,pavilion&squashcourts
Computersuites
Healthcentre
Fitnessequipment
FullyequippedSportsHall
Acresofbeautifulgroundsandwoodland
The College offers a comprehensive Enrichment Programme each week, which all pupils from Year 6 upwards participate in. There are currently very successful partnerships with a range of local clubs and academies in Basketball, Golf, Tennis, Padel, Racketball, Horse-Riding, and Volleyball For more information about the wideranging sports programme, please refer to the College brochures and website
SAMPLE WEEKLY SCHEDULES (ACADEMY &
ELITE PATHWAYS)*
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
WEDNESDAY EVENING
THURSDAY
FUTURES PATHWAY
The Tettenhall College International Football Academy is designed to support the holistic development of each pupil while providing a clear pathway for progression to the next stage of their footballing journey. Underpinned by strong and practical connections with Wolves FC and the footballing philosophy promoted by the club, this programme offers pathways to a future where football remains a key focus for the individual.
Pupils who are part of the football academy may progress onto:
UK university football programmes
US university football scholarships
Semi-professional football opportunities
Further professional development pathways within the game
The Sixth Form Pathways Programme at Tettenhall College covers seven distinct routes to support a strong university application, including Sport The pathways are designed to give access to a broad and meaningful range of supra-curricular activities. For Sport, these incude the Sports Leaders Qualfication
The International Football Academy programme offers access to GIS (Global Institute of Sport) which delivers ground-breaking degree programmes in the football and sports industry online and with access to a global network of industry leaders and elite stadium venues in the UK, US, Canada, Australia and Belgium. GIS is dedicated to the delivery of unrivalled degree programmes in the strategic, operational and business facets of the football and sport GIS has developed a profile of pioneering qualifications to provide pathways into the exciting world of sport and enable those working within sport to drive forward their career in the global multibillion-dollar industry.
BOARDING LIFE AT TETTENHALL COLLEGE
Tettenhall College is a vibrant, busy and highly sought after boarding school. Alongside our fantastic British boarders, we are also delighted to welcome pupils from around the globe
Every year the boarding community at Tettenhall College is home to pupils from more than 25 different countries, currently covering 5 different continents. Pupils travel hundreds, sometimes thousands, of miles to be part of our authentic British school, which is personal, supportive and ambitious for each young person.
The boarding accommodation at Tettenhall College is excellent. Recently refurbished, our boarding houses are modern, warm, inviting spaces, where pupils can relax, feel at home and have social time with their friends.
Junior boarders from ages 10 - 14 will typically share a bedroom with two or three other students,
Intermediate boarders from 15 - 17 will typically share a room with one or two other students, often with an en-suite bathroom.
Senior boarders aged 17 - 18 may be offered an individual study bedroom
We take food and nutrition very seriously here at the school. A high-quality range of freshly cooked, healthy and satisfying meals are served for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. Our team of chefs take great care to address any allergy or other food requirements, so that everyone has just what they need
For more information about the superb boarding programme at Tettenhall College, please see our boarding brochure, review this section on the College website, or use the QR code here.
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GOTHIA CUP OPPORTUNITIES
The Gothia Cup is the world’s largest and most international youth football (soccer) tournament, often referred to as the "World Youth Cup". Held annually in Gothenburg, Sweden, it brings together thousands of young players from around the globe to compete and share cultural experiences.
Scale: Each year, approximately 1,700 to 2,000 teams from around 80 nations participate, playing nearly 5,000 matches on over 110 pitches
Participants: It is open to both boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 18. Since its founding in 1975, more than 1.3 million players from 153 countries have taken part.
Organiser: The tournament is organised by the professional Swedish football club BK Häcken
Events: The week-long event is famous for its massive Opening Ceremony at the Ullevi Stadium, which typically attracts over 50,000 spectators
Pupils participating in the International Football Academy will have an opportunity to be chosen as part of the squad that will compete at the Gothia Cup each summer. (there is an additional charge of c. £2,000 for this international trip).
Many professional footballers played in the Gothia Cup during their youth before rising to international stardom, including:
Zlatan Ibrahimović
Andrea Pirlo (won with US Voluntas)
Xabi Alonso
Alan Shearer
Emmanuel Adebayor
SPORT SCHOLARSHIP AT TETTENHALL COLLEGE
When pupils reach the Senior School at Tettenhall College, the formal scholarship programme is introduced Scholarship at Tettenhall College is a significant, foundational and active process
Such an award is made after a structured assessment process that considers a pupil’s current level of attainment, alongside their potential. Attitude and an understanding of the importance of scholarship are also fundamental aspects of the assessment process. It is important to understand that, in terms of sport, an applicant must be able to demonstrate a level of skill, representation and achievement significantly beyond ‘school sport’ It is also likely that they will be able to play a range of different sports at a high level for their age
Those awarded a Sport Scholarship will become full members of the Tettenhall College Scholars’ Programme, completing termly tasks as part of their commitment to progression and personal development.
At Tettenhall College we offer a range of Scholarships which may be awarded for entry into years 7, 9 or 12. It is not possible for a sport scholarship to be awarded for entry into the Preparatory School.
The value of a sport scholarship is typically between 10 - 20% (maximum) of the annual school fees.
There is a competitive application process each year for those pupils wishing to apply for a sports scholarship award. A formal application process is followed, with coaches references required, and video footage typically requested.
For more information about the sport scholarship opportunities at Tettenhall College, please contact our Admissions team at admissions@tettcoll.co.uk
HOW TO APPLY & FEES
In order to apply for a place at the Tettenhall College International Football Academy, pupils must be enrolled as either a day or boarding pupil at the school.
DAY PUPIL APPLICATIONS
To app y for a place at Tettenhall Col ege, we warmly encourage a l day pupil app icants to visit the school for a private tour, or come to an Open Day event, to meet with staff and to view our facilities.
We wil then arrange taster days so that the pup l can experience a regu ar school day, and our staff can spend time getting to know them
For pupils applying for a Preparatory School place informal academic assessments will be conducted during the taster days and recent school reports will be reviewed
For pup ls applying for a Senior Schoo or S xth Form place, a Cambr dge CEM or CAT4 assesssment wi l be conducted before or during the taster days and recent schoo reports will be reviewed
For those pupils wishing to join the Internat onal Football Academy (age 7+), they wil also meet with members of the Sports Department and may have an n person or online meeting with the Football Academy Director
BOARDING PUPIL APPLICATIONS
Whilst the ma ority of our board ng pupi s join full time, a number of places are ava lable for a one term, one semester or one year integrat on experience Pupi s can join Tettenhall Co lege as boarders from the age of 10.
We will meet prospective pupils either in person f they vis t the school in the r own country if we are vis ting, or via an online v deo cal
If a boarding pup l is join ng for one year or more (or requires a visa), we wi l conduct an online CAT4 assessment prior to confirming if a place can be offered Once a place is offered and accepted, we wi l work with the family to ensure that all visa requirements are fulfilled (if applicab e), in good time for the pupil to join for the start of the year or the new term
Boarding pup ls wil rece ve lots of information ahead of oining the schoo , including a detailed jo ning pack Boarders’ Arrival Day is a wonderfu occas on when we we come all of our new pupils at the start of the academic year.
Our Admissions team will be pleased to talk you through each step of the admissions process, where we aim to make this as clear and as straight forward as possible.
Full information regarding school fees and the International Football Academy can be found on the College website: https://www.tettenhallcollege.co.uk/admissions/fees/