MCFC Elite Football Academy Brochure by Rossall School

COMBINING ROSSALL’S ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE WITH MANCHESTER CITY’S WORLD CLASS FOOTBALL PHILOSOPHY.

WHO COULD YOU BECOME?

A R T N E R S H I P

ROSSALL SCHOOL & MANCHESTER CITY’S ELITE FOOTBALL PROGRAMME

Our groundbreaking new partnership with Manchester City Football Club, one of the premier football clubs in the world, marks a significant milestone in the evolution of our Elite Football Programme First established in 2016, our continued success on the national stage has culminated in us developing a UK first and exclusive partnership with the Premier League, European and World Champions commencing in September 2024

ROSSALL SCHOOL

Founded in 1844, Rossall is one of the leading independent coeducational boarding and day schools in the UK with a long and proud heritage. Set on the picturesque Lancashire coastline, Rossall’s 160 acre campus offers an unrivalled setting in which to live and learn The extensive modern facilities are complemented by a commitment to achieving academic excellence through the provision of outstanding teaching and learning Dedicated professional staff deliver a rich and varied curriculum that challenges and inspires in equal measure

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MANCHESTER CITY FOOTBALL CLUB

Founded in 1880, Manchester City Football Club is globally recognised, competing at the highest level of English, European and World Football Current holders of the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and World Club Cup, the club is renowned for its commitment to excellence, innovation and youth development The Manchester City philosophy continues to break new ground in the ever competitive landscape of professional football

WHY ROSSALL?

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

A renowned British boarding school with a rich history of academic success

The perfect blend of a challenging curriculum and personalised support for academic achievement

GLOBAL COMMUNITY

A diverse and inclusive international community fostering cultural exchange and lifelong friendships

Network with students from around thw road, creating a global perspective and valuable connections

PRIME COASTAL LOCATION IN ENGLAND’S HEART OF FOOTBALL

The spiritual home of modern football

Situated on the picturesque Lancashire coast, providing a unique and inspiring backdrop for both studies and leisure

A safe and welcoming environment for students to thrive and explore their potential

HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT

A balanced approach that encourages holistic development, combining academic rigour with football excellence

INDIVIDUALISED ATTENTION

Smaller class sizes allow for personalised attention and tailored support for each student’s academic and football journey

Dedicated mentors and coaches committed to the individual success of every student

ELITE FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT

Football coaching from top-tier professionals, coaching the MCFC philosophy

3 x MCFC coaches delivering sessions on-site, 5 days per week, plus a specific part-time goal keeping coach

Tailored training to nurture talent and elevate each player’s skill set

STATE OF THE ART FACILITIES

On campus access to cutting edge and fully equipped sports centre

On campus 3G football pitch with additional pitch expected in 2026

Training and fixtures at both the Rossall campus and Mill Farm Sports Village complex

Excellent and comfortable boarding facilities fostering a conductive environment for both study and football

PROVEN TRACK RECORD

2 x National Champions, consistent national final appearances

EXCEPTIONAL ALUMNI SUCCESSES

Alumni success stories in both academics and sports, demonstrating the long-lasting impact of a Rossall School education

Graduates excelling in prestigious universities and professional sports careers

CUSTOMISED SPORTS SCIENCE PROGRAMME

Tailored sports science programs integrated into the curriculum, enhancing physical fitness, injury prevention, and overall football performance

INNOVATIVE SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY SUPPORT

Specialised sports psychology support to enhance mental resilience, focus, and motivation, vital components of football success

EXCLUSIVE MCFC PARTNERSHIP, NOT AVAILABLE AT ANY OTHER UK BOARDING SCHOOL

The only British boarding school in partnership with Manchester City FC, providing direct access to the club’s renowned coaching staff and elite training methods

THE ACADEMY

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Both boys and girls in Years 7 to Year 13 (11 to 19 years of age) are eligible for acceptance into the programme. Pupil participation in the programme is a minimum of one year However, we do encourage membership to be no fewer than two years, so that pupils have the opportunity to complete a formal academic qualification. Rossall School offers courses in English as an Additional Language, (I)GCSE, A Levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, and BTEC Sport (Double and Triple) Consequently, we are able to put together personalised programmes of study suited to meet the needs of the individual

HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT

Rossall embraces a comprehensive approach to education, emphasising not only academic excellence but also character building, critical thinking and soft skills. Students who enrol on the football programme benefit from the diverse range of subjects and additional extra curricular activities that serve to provide opportunities for leadership and community engagement that facilitates growth into well rounded individuals who are prepared to thrive in an everevolving world Through innovative teaching practise and Rossall nurtures students’ curiosity, creativity and resilience, empowering them to become compassionate global citizens that make meaningful contributions to the world around them

GLOBAL COMMUNITY

Whilst Rossall is majority British, the international community at Rossall is one of the most diverse within the independent school sector, with no less than fifty nationalities studying at Rossall This environment enriches the educational experience and prepares our students for success in an interconnected world This global community extends beyond graduation where students become lifelong Rossallians with a network of contacts from around the globe

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INDIVIDUALISED ATTENTION

By tailoring teaching to meet the unique needs and learning styles of each student, our staff foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every individual can thrive. This personalised approach enables teachers to identify and nurture students’ strengths, address their areas for growth and provide timely support and guidance Smaller class sizes, close mentorship and one-on-one interactions foster meaningful relationships between students and teachers, creating a sense of belonging and empowerment that extends beyond the classroom

PRIME COASTAL LOCATION IN ENGLAND’S HEART OF FOOTBALL

Nestled along the picturesque Lancashire coastline, students at Rossall are not only surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty but also have access to a range of outdoor activities, fostering a healthy and active lifestyle Moreover, being in the heartland of English football provides students with opportunities to engage in the rich

THE PROGRAMME

STRUCTURE

Whether you have already played in an academy, with aspirations to play professionally, or simply wish to develop your footballing ability, the programme is designed to develop players so that they can fulfil their potential With no less than thirteen teams across all ages and genders, there are plenty of opportunities to progress at various levels within the sport.

ELITE FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT

Pupils will follow an academy programme constructed and delivered by Manchester City for a full school year with their time divided between Rossall School, training at the Mill Farm Sports Complex, competitive fixtures and a minimum of four visits to the Manchester City Etihad training campus.

Individual development will be regularly monitored and discussed between parents and coaches Individual learning programmes and weekly player evaluations are in place to ensure training is tailored to every player’s needs, and targets are set and reviewed regularly

Years 7-9

Years 10-11

Years 12-13

“We call our playing style ‘Beautiful Football’. It’s an expression and extension of our attitude, our beliefs and our values. We strive to produce an attractive, technically skills, attack-based game that entertains. It’s all about the team.” MCFC

Full training bundle available including playing kit and tracksuit

Termly training sessions at the Etihad campus per academic year

Showcase talent and ability to MCFC coaching team on daily basis

Termly visits from University level institutions from around the globe for career development

3 x MCFC accredited coaches permanently delivering sessions through term time.

MCFC’s accreditation programme is the gold standard for football coaching

Expert nutritional advice from Head of Athletic Development

Personalised strength and conditioning programme

Best in class in sports psychology, visualisation and goal setting

Be part of the MCFC family and philosophy

MCFC Player development reporting system

Specific Goal Keeping Coach

Opportunity to attend MCFC ﬁxtures throughout the season (EPL ﬁxtures not guaranteed)

Potential links and pathways to MCFC’s network of 14 partner clubs around the world

Wider exposure to football and business of football through online sessions with MCFC representatives

VEO ﬁlmed games for analysis, learning for students and parents

Sector leading football and sports related career advice and pathways

Participation opportunities at a national level through ESFA, ISFA and other competitions

THE PROGRAMME

STATE OF THE ART FACILITIES

Training and fixtures both at the Rossall campus and state of the art Mill Farm Sports Village complex

4 small grass size (9 v 9) pitches

4 full size grass pitches at Rossall sports campus

10 changing room facilities including showers

Fully resourced strength and conditioning unit with watt bikes, 7 squat racks, SkiErg, rowers, plyometric boxes, dumbbells, kettlebells/ medicine balls and more

On campus Astroturf pitch

Fully equipped Sports Centre with futsal courts

Planning application in place for a new 3G artificial pitch 50m sprint track

CUSTOMISED SPORTS SCIENCE STRENGTH & CONDITIONING

Rossall utilises cutting edge strength and conditioning research and sport science techniques to help maximise youth athlete performance The school takes a holistic approach to these areas, incorporating physical literacy or resistant training skills competency and athletic motor skills competencies (AMSC). Furthermore, the strength and conditioning programme is delivered with reference to factors such as maturation levels of peak height velocity (PHV) and in ensuring programmes are tailored for age, gender and physiological differences Multiple strength and conditioning plans are created throughout the year, along with regular workload and intensity monitoring

TRULY UNIQUE

Our exclusive UK partnership with Manchester City offers students a transformative opportunity to pursue their passion for football within a British boarding school setting. Our shared values with Manchester City include quality, authenticity and child welfare

Training sessions are delivered by Manchester City coaches, using the City Play model and following the same ‘Beautiful Football’ philosophy and methodology used consistently across all areas of the Club to develop players.

The partnership with Manchester City, unlike any other in the UK, opens doors to unparalleled opportunities With 14 clubs around the world, the Manchester City group of football clubs provides exposure to professional scouting networks and pathways to football related careers around the world.

THE PROGRAMME

SENIOR (Years 12-13)

MONDAY Squad Training

16:30 - 17:45

INTERMEDIATE Years (10-11)

JUNIOR Years (7-9)

Squad Training

18:00 - 19:30 Strength and Conditioning 16:40 - 17:30

TUESDAY Strength and Conditioning 16:30 - 17:30 Strength and Conditioning 06:30 - 07:30 Squad Training 17:00 - 18:00

WEDNESDAY Squad Training 15:00 - 16:30 Squad Training 15:00 - 16:30 OFF

THURSDAY Squad Training 17:30 - 21:00

FRIDAY ILP Session

SATURDAY

Strength and Conditioning 06:30 - 07:30 Squad Training 16:00 - 17:30 OFF

12:00 - 12:45 Strength and Conditioning 16:30 - 17:30 ILP Session 16:30 - 17:30 Squad Training 16:30 - 17:30

SAMPLE - SUBJECT TO CHANGE

PROVEN TRACK RECORD

Boys Under 15 PDPL League Winners 2023

Girls Under 18 English Colleges Northern League Winners 2022

Girls Under 18 ISFA Smith Construction National Cup Winners 2022

Girls Under 15 ISFA Trophy Finalist 2022

Boys Under 19 Lancashire County Cup Winners 2023

Boys Under 15 PDPL Cup Winners 2023

Girls Under 18 ESFA Runners Up withdrew due to clash with GCSE exams 2022 R O S S A L L

Girls Under 18 ISFA 7s Runners Up 2022

Girls Under 18 ISFA Smith Construction National Cup Winners 2023

Boys Under 18 ISFA

Barry Burns Northern 8 Winners 2023

Girls Under 15 ISFA Northern Regional League Winners 2022

Girls Under 15 ISFA 7s Runners Up 2022

Under 18 ISFA Boodles National Cup Runners Up

R O S S A L L R E S U L T S

PATHWAYS

Rossall graduates of the Elite Football Programme are presented with a diverse array of potential pathways, each offering opportunities for personal and professional growth While the dream of becoming a professional footballer is a driving force for many, it’s important to recognise that the path to success in this field can be challenging, and the reality is that only a small percentage will reach the very highest levels of sport

However, through the comprehensive training and support provided by the programme, students are equipped with the skills, knowledge and experience to pursue various avenues in football and beyond For those with aspirations of playing professionally, the programme offers national level competition, outstanding coaching and exposure to professional scouting networks for students to showcase their talent

Additionally, for students considering higher education, the possibility of securing scholarships to prestigious US colleges and overseas universities is a well established path for recent graduates Equally, many of our graduates choose to pursue a wide range of football-related careers including coaching, sports management and physiotherapy at top UK universities, such as Loughborough