Choosing the right university course can feel like a big decision, and it is not unusual to question whether you have made the right choice. For Solange, that moment came during her first year on the Chelsea Foundation Coaching & Development Degree, delivered in partnership with St Mary’s University, London.
After joining the programme in September 2024, Solange considered changing course. However, after taking time to reflect on her experiences and the unique opportunities available through the degree, she chose to stay. That decision has proven to be a turning point.
Since then, Solange has embraced every opportunity the programme has offered, developing both academically and professionally while gaining hands-on experience across a wide range of Chelsea Foundation programmes.
Throughout her studies, she has completed placements with the Foundation’s Inclusion and Disability team, Soccer Schools, Premier League Kicks and, most recently, the Women’s Academy Emerging Talent Centre (ETC), where she further developed her coaching skills in a high-performance environment.
Beyond her placements, Solange has become a familiar face at Chelsea Foundation events, supporting Premier League Primary Stars tournaments, Inspire Her events, International Women’s Day 2026 celebrations and the Reece and Lauren James Cup. These experiences have enabled her to work alongside experienced practitioners, engage with participants from diverse backgrounds and build the confidence, adaptability and leadership skills required to succeed within the football and sport development industry.
Reflecting on her journey, Solange’s experience demonstrates that success is not always about getting everything right from day one. Sometimes it is about persevering, embracing new challenges and making the most of every opportunity available.
Solange commented: ‘Being a part of this degree has allowed me to throw myself into as many coaching roles as possible. I have coached at different events and levels throughout the Chelsea FC Foundation as well as Chelsea FC as a whole. Developing my coaching skills and gaining experience that will stay with me throughout my career.’
As she prepares to enter her final year, Solange is continuing to build an impressive portfolio of practical experience alongside her academic studies, placing her in a strong position for a future career in football coaching and sport for development.
The Chelsea Foundation Coaching & Development Degree, delivered in partnership with St Mary’s University, London, is designed for aspiring coaches and practitioners who want to make a difference through football.
Over two years, students develop an in-depth understanding of football coaching, player development and the role sport can play in creating positive social change. Alongside classroom learning, students benefit from unrivalled access to practical placements across Chelsea Foundation’s wide-ranging programmes.
By combining academic learning with real-world experience, the degree equips students with the knowledge, practical skills and professional network to pursue careers across football, coaching and community sport.