As pre-season training continues and attention turns towards the upcoming 2024/25 season, many of the Chelsea Academy players are also anticipating results day, having taken GCSEs and A-Levels during the summer academic term.

Throughout the season, the players are extremely busy not just on the pitch but also in the classroom. Aligned with our full-time football programme from Under-15s level, our players also follow our Premier League education programme.

The Academy supports the boys throughout their GCSEs and offer A-Level subjects with the opportunity for personal one-to-one tutors on top of lessons, enhancing the support surrounding their schedules to ensure they thrive both on and off the pitch.

Under-21s goalkeeper Max Merrick recently took his A-Level in physical education this summer, and hopes to continue his studies in personal training to progress his knowledge of fitness and wellbeing.

As the 18-year-old looks ahead to his results day, he reflected on his educational experience at Chelsea, explaining how he managed his footballing and academic commitments and why he believes it is important for Academy footballers to continue their studies.

‘Sometimes it was difficult to find a balance between studying and football,' said Merrick. 'However, once I completed the exams, it was rewarding to know I could do both.

‘Going into the classroom was important for me as it allowed me to switch mindsets and apply the knowledge I learned onto the pitch. That was the main reason I decided to pursue physical education.

‘One aspect that helped me get through the busy period was having a solid relationship with my teachers; their support was incredible. Whenever I struggled with the pressures or the syllabus, I knew my teachers would support me by breaking everything down and ensuring I wasn’t overwhelmed.

‘I realise how fortunate we all are here at Chelsea for that, and that’s why it’s important for us to take every opportunity.’

As the keeper touched on the importance of taking the opportunities in front of him, he further explained why he supports the education programme and why he thinks it is vital to continue his learning off the pitch.

‘One thing you never want to think about as a footballer is the possibility of needing a plan B, but one day you might not be playing. Having the education and learning behind you is vital as it progresses you in life.

‘With the support and experiences here at such a high level, we are lucky enough to have those, so we should take full advantage of them.’

To gain further insight into the support that is offered throughout our education programme, we spoke to Simon Knight, head of education in our Academy from Under-9s to Under-16s. He emphasised the advantages of the lessons the boys learn, which they can also adopt outside the classroom.

‘It can be challenging for the boys as they are already busy with football commitments, but education is crucial, which is why we encourage and support their learning and individual growth to the fullest.

‘Not only does education teach the boys the syllabus, but it also brings life skills they can use in various situations, even on the pitch.

‘As a department, we want them to develop and boost their confidence to speak openly and communicate their feelings and opinions, which gives them overall self-assurance.

‘Throughout the academic year, it has been great to see the boys flourish in the classroom and shift their mindset away from football. They want to build on their communication and confidence, and we want our Academy boys to be comfortable speaking up in any environment.

‘With the support they receive in the classroom, we hope to build confident individuals who can flourish both on and off the pitch, which I believe they can do in this supportive community.’