The programme will provide girls aged 16 to 18-years-old the opportunity to study their A Levels whilst also following their ambitions on the football pitch. The Foundation will support Mount Kelly in the recruitment of students on a yearly basis with the aim to develop and deliver a high performing female football academy. The collaboration will see the Foundation provide an extensive weekly training schedule and oversee competitive fixtures on a weekly basis.

For students on the programme, there will also be enrichment opportunities that include training visits and access to Chelsea FC Women fixtures as well as volunteering and employment opportunities. John Dutton, Devon area lead for the Foundation, said, ‘We are delighted to be working closely with Mount Kelly to deliver a football academy that will benefit local, national and international students. ‘We cannot wait to get started and look forward to providing experiences that will remain with the students throughout their adult life.’

Head Master of Mount Kelly, Guy Ayling added: ‘We are very excited and honoured to launch this programme in association with the Chelsea FC Foundation.‘I am confident that we can offer Sixth Form girls everything that they will need to succeed in the examination hall and on the football pitch.’For national and international students interested in the programme, visit www.mountkelly.com/sixth-form/sport/girls-performance-football/