MEN'S & WOMEN'S
INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY
EXPERIENCE A FOOTBALLING GAP YEAR & TRAIN WITH NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
MULTIPLE NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
Park View Academy of Sport has established itself as a high performing football (soccer) programme, consistently achieving national success across English College (ECFA) leagues since 2017. This success has not only earned us multiple national championships but has also provided our players with opportunities to compete on the international stage.
At Park View Academy of Sport International Academy, our male and female players are part of a winning tradition.
Our programme has consistently delivered success on the national stage, securing ECFA National Cup victories in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.
In May 2025, we achieved a historic and remarkable double success for our academy, with both our Men's and Women's teams being crowned ECFA National Champions.
We have also lifted National Football Youth League (NFYL) trophies for four consecutive years (2018–2021) and were crowned Premier Division champions in 2019, 2020, and 2021.
This winning culture ensures that international students joining our programme are stepping into an elite football environment with a proven pathway for player development, success, and progression.
Our national championship-winning squads prove that our high-performance programme, led by UEFA-qualified coaches, prepares players for the next step—whether that be professional football, scholarships in the USA, or university progression in the UK.
Thanks to our ongoing national success, Park View Academy of Sport has proudly been selected to represent England at the prestigious ISF Schools World Cup tournaments. Our boys' and girls' squads competed against the very best schools from around the world, showcasing their talent at events in both Morocco (2023) and China (2024). These opportunities highlight the exceptional level of our programme and give our students the chance to experience international competition on a global stage.
NATIONAL
TITLES
PERSONAL GROWTH
GAIN LIFE SKILLS
JOIN NATIONAL
CHAMPIONS
EXPERIENCE A GAP YEAR
OUR OFFER
TO INTERNATIONAL PLAYERS
A gap year at Park View Academy of Sport provides student-athletes with the perfect opportunity to develop their footballing ability while preparing for the next stage of their career—whether that be professional football, university scholarships, or collegiate sport abroad. Our full-time football programme delivers elite coaching, daily training, and high-level competition, all within a professional academy environment. Players benefit from access to UEFA-qualified coaches, top-tier facilities, and strength & conditioning support, ensuring they progress both physically and tactically.
Beyond football, our gap year programme helps athletes maintain their academic and athletic eligibility for future opportunities. Players looking to pursue scholarships in the USA, enroll in UK universities, or secure professional contracts will receive guidance on their academic pathways, visa support, and showcase opportunities. With competitive matches against professional academies, university teams, and elite opposition, student-athletes gain valuable match experience while being exposed to scouts and recruiters.
For international players, the transition to life in the UK is fully supported, with accommodation, mentoring, and lifestyle assistance provided to ensure a smooth experience. This year allows players to gain independence, develop key life skills, and mature as athletes and individuals, all while keeping their career options open. A gap year at Park View Academy of Sport is not just about football—it’s about preparing for a successful future both on and off the pitch.
TRAIN LIKE A
PROFESSIONAL
INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE
GAIN LIFE SKILLS
EXPERIENCE
OUR FOOTBALL CULTURE
MAINTAIN
COLLEGE ELIGIBILITY
BENEFITS OF A
GAP YEAR
DOWNLOADABLE
PARENTAL BROCHURE
WHAT WE OFFER
TAKE A LOOK AT THE OPTIONS
Our academy is designed to provide international students with an exceptional experience both on and off the pitch. Click one of the icons to find out more about different aspects of our programme.
FOOTBALL PROGRAMME
OUR
VENUE
OUR
ACCOMMODATION
EDUCATION
OPTION
FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
MEET THE
TEAM
LIFE IN
ENGLAND
OUR
TESTIMONIALS
APPLICATION
PROCESS
PARENTAL BROCHURE
FOOTBALL PROGRAMME
RECEIVE COACHING, DATA ANALYSIS & STRENGTH & CONDITIONING AS PART OF YOUR JOURNEY.
See below all aspects of our Men's & Women's International Football Academy.
FOOTBALL
COACHING
At Park View Academy of Sport, our international players receive elite-level coaching from a team of highly experienced and UEFA-qualified professionals. Our coaching staff boasts extensive backgrounds in professional football, combining years of playing experience with the highest coaching qualifications to deliver a tailored development programme for every player.
Training sessions are meticulously designed to replicate the demands of the modern game, with a focus on technical development, tactical understanding, and physical conditioning. Players will engage in structured sessions that enhance their positional awareness, decision-making, and overall football intelligence. Each player’s progress is closely monitored, with regular feedback provided to ensure individual goals are met.
Our coaches are dedicated to creating a professional environment that mirrors the expectations of elite football clubs. Whether working on technical drills, set-piece strategies, or match-day preparation, players will experience a high-performance culture designed to maximise their potential. With access to cutting-edge analysis tools, performance tracking, and video review sessions, players receive the insights needed to sharpen their skills and improve game performance.
Beyond the pitch, our coaching team is committed to supporting players’ personal growth and development. By combining expert guidance with mentorship, we help players build confidence, resilience, and leadership skills – vital attributes for those aspiring to play at the highest levels or pursue opportunities in the U.S. college system.
MEET OUR TEAM
TAKE A LOOK AT OUR
EXPERIENCED TEAM OF STAFF
All of our coaches are UEFA qualified and are vastly experienced in the Men's & Women's game.
Lewis
Pendleton
Director of Sport
Craig
Bewick
Women's Football Manager
Gary
Neasham
Head of Medical
Brandon
Young
International Academy Liaison Officer
John
Gamble
Director of Football
Michael
Barron
Men's Football Coach
Lewis
Black
Physiotherapist
John
Young
International Academy Director
Mark
Goldsborough
Women's Football Coach
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Georgina
Farndell
Tutor
Michael
Nelson
Men's Football Manager
Ross
Morecroft
Goalkeeper Coach
Rachel
Hepple
Tutor
GAMES
PROGRAMME
Our international players benefit from a comprehensive games programme designed to provide maximum exposure, development, and competitive experience.
During the week, players compete in the English College FA Premier League, facing strong opposition from across the region in a structured, high-intensity environment. This league offers regular games, ensuring players have consistent game time to develop their technical, tactical, and physical attributes.
Players can be selected to play for Park View AFC on a weekend - our unique games programme where players compete in the national step system, which is the unique English League System, where teams seek promotion to eventually gain entry into the football league.
What makes our programme unique is that we are the only club in the country to have a squad made up of youth team players playing in open age (adult) football in the FA national system.
Opportunities exist for:
Durham County Leagues
Wearside League
The Northern League
North East Regional Women’s League
To further enhance player exposure, our programme also includes Showcase Games against professional and semi-professional clubs, giving players the opportunity to impress scouts and coaches from top-tier football organisations.
LINKS WITH
PROFESSIONAL CLUBS
At Park View Academy of Sport, we pride ourselves on our strong connections with professional football clubs across the UK and beyond. These links provide our players with invaluable opportunities to showcase their talent and gain exposure at the highest levels of the game.
Our partnership with Huddersfield Town and relationships with clubs such as Sunderland AFC, Newcastle United, Middlesbrough FC, and other professional academies enable our players to experience elite-level coaching, take part in trial opportunities, and participate in high-profile showcase fixtures. These showcase games allow players to compete directly against professional youth teams, offering scouts and coaches the chance to assess their potential in a competitive environment.
In addition to showcase matches, our established network provides pathways for players to gain professional trials, secure club placements, or progress into development squads. Our experienced coaching staff — many of whom have played or coached at professional levels — actively maintain these links, ensuring our players are exposed to opportunities that align with their talent and ambitions.
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STRENGTH &
CONDITIONING
At Park View Academy of Sport International Academy, our players benefit from a Premier League academy-standard performance gym — equipped by Perform Better, the official supplier to the England National Team. Our state-of-the-art facilities provide everything needed to help athletes progress physically and reach their full potential.
Our dedicated team of UKSCA accredited, Master's degree, and PhD-qualified Strength and Conditioning coaches tailor individual programmes to meet each player's specific needs. We focus on developing strength, power, speed, and endurance — the key physical attributes needed to excel at the highest levels of football.
The performance gym is fully fitted with cutting-edge technology, including VALD testing systems, Witty Timing Gates, and PASCO force plates, allowing us to monitor workloads, track performance data, and create evidence-based training programmes. Players also benefit from access to full and half racks, and specialist equipment like the Eccentrix K-Box, designed to elevate strength training.
Every student-athlete follows a structured, position-specific training programme, designed to maximise their athletic development. Delivered by highly experienced staff who understand the physical demands of professional football, our programme ensures that international players are physically prepared to thrive both on and off the pitch.
CATAPULT ONE
PODS
PHYSICAL METRICS RECORDED IN TRAINING & GAMES
REHABILITATION
CENTRE
INJURY PREVENTION & TREATMENT
VEO
CAMERA
GAMES ARE RECORDED FOR PLAYER ANALYSIS
SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY
RECEIVE TECHNIQUES TO HELP WITH
MENTAL READINESS
PLAYER ANALYSIS &
REHABILITATION
Park View Academy of Sport International Academy prioritises the holistic development of its international players through the strategic implementation of advanced technologies and dedicated support systems.
Performance analysis is enhanced through the use of VEO camera systems, providing automated recording and AI-powered insights into training sessions and matches. This allows for detailed review of team tactics and individual player performance, facilitating personalised feedback and remote sharing capabilities for continuous learning.
Furthermore, Catapult wearable technology offers quantifiable data on key performance indicators, enabling coaches to monitor training loads, mitigate injury risks, and develop individualised training plans based on objective physical metrics.
In the event of injury, international players benefit from comprehensive rehabilitation programmes delivered by expert sports therapists and physiotherapists. These programmes are tailored to individual needs, employing modern facilities and a phased return-to-play approach, alongside education on injury prevention strategies.
Recognising the crucial link between well-being and athletic success, the Academy provides regular well-being talks and support initiatives. These address mental health awareness, offer guidance on cultural integration for international students, and cover essential topics such as nutrition and time management, ensuring players have access to the necessary resources for their overall well-being and development both on and off the field.
OPTIONAL EDUCATION COURSE
TURN PASSION INTO A PROFESSION - WHILE YOU TRAIN
ACTIVE IQ LEVEL 2 & 3
IN PERSONAL TRAINING
As part of their football programme, international students at Park View Academy of Sport have the opportunity to earn the Level 2 & 3 Active IQ Personal Training Qualification – a nationally recognised certification that provides a direct pathway into the fitness and health industry.
Delivered one day per week, this course is seamlessly integrated into the weekly schedule, allowing students to gain additional qualifications without compromising their football development. Students will learn core principles of anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and client programming – equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to work in gyms & health clubs.
Whether you're interested in a career in sports performance, fitness coaching, or simply want to build a strong foundation for life beyond football, this qualification opens doors across the global fitness industry. It’s the perfect way to diversify your skill set and create new opportunities while pursuing your football goals.
TIMETABLE
A LOOK AT WHAT YOUR WEEK WILL LOOK LIKE AT PARK VIEW ACADEMY OF SPORT
The timetable below is an example week at Park View Academy of Sport and is subject to change.
MONDAY
9:00 - 10:00 - Strength & Conditioning (S&C)
10:00 - 11:00 - Player Analysis
11:00 - 13:00 - Football Training
13:00 - 14:00 - Physiotherapy & Recovery
14:00 - 17:00 - Downtime / Free Time
WEDNESDAY
9:00 - 10:00 - Recovery Session (Pool, Yoga, or Light Gym)
10:00 - 11:00 - Team Meeting & Tactical Briefing
11:00 - 13:00 - Competitive Fixture (ECFA League or Friendly)
13:00 - 14:00 - Post-Match Analysis
14:00 - 17:00 - Downtime & Personal Development
FRIDAY
9:00 - 10:00 - Strength & Conditioning (S&C)
10:00 - 11:00 - Player Analysis
11:00 - 13:00 - Football Training
13:00 - 14:00 - Physiotherapy & Recovery
14:00 - 17:00 - Downtime / Free Time
SUNDAY
Match Day – North East Women's Regional League
Pre-match prep
Post-match analysis & recovery
Afternoon - Free Time
Rest Day For Men's Academy
TUESDAY
9:00 - 10:00 - Strength & Conditioning (S&C)
10:00 - 11:00 - Player Analysis
11:00 - 13:00 - Football Training
13:00 - 14:00 - Physiotherapy & Recovery
14:00 - 17:00 - Downtime / Free Time
THURSDAY
9:00 - 10:00 - Strength & Conditioning (Speed & Power)
10:00 - 11:00 - On-Field Training (Small-Sided & Technical Drills)
11:00 - 13:00 - Gym & Mobility Work
13:00 - 14:00 - Recovery & Nutrition Workshop
14:00 - 16:00 - Academic Study / Work Placement (If Applicable)
SATURDAY
Match Day – Competitive Fixtures in Northern League, Wearside League, Durham County League
Pre-match prep
Post-match analysis & recovery
Afternoon - Free Time
Rest Day For Women's Academy
OUR VENUE
TRAIN & PLAY IN A PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENT
Take a look at the facilities on offer at Park View Academy of Sport International Academy.
LOCATED IN
CHESTER-LE-STREET
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
PERFORMANCE GYM
11 v 11
GRASS &
3G PITCHES
PHYSIOTHERAPY
SUITE
PREHAB & REHAB
SURROUNDING
CITIES
PROFESSIONAL
STADIUMS
NATURAL
LANDMARKS
COASTAL
RESORT
LIVE LIKE A PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLER IN ENGLAND
EXPERIENCE A
U.K. LIFESTYLE
Experience the passion for football and a welcoming community in the North East of England. Immerse yourself in the region's sporting heritage and vibrant culture while developing your skills at Park View Academy.
ACCOMODATION
COMFORTABLE APARTMENTS FOR OUR STUDENTS
Comfortable, fully-equipped accommodation with reliable Wi-Fi provides a home away from home. Enjoy all essential amenities, ensuring a relaxed and convenient stay during your time at the Academy.
Please see below an example of the standard of accommodation you will be housed in.
COMFORTABLE
APARTMENT
COMPLIMENTARY
WIFI
ALL REQUIRED
AMMENITIES
COOKING
FACILITIES
TESTIMONIALS
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT OUR PLAYERS HAVE HAD TO SAY ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
Take a look at what our former students had to say about our programme!
"Coming from Australia, I was unsure about adapting to a new country and football culture, but Park View Academy of Sport made the transition easy. The high-level coaching, competitive matches, and professional environment have pushed me to improve every day. This experience has been life-changing, and I feel more prepared than ever to pursue a professional career in football."
Jet Fittolani, Australia
HOW TO APPLY
APPLY NOW TO START YOUR U.K JOURNEY
Register your interest in the programme by filling out the form below. Someone will be in touch regarding your next steps!
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
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Will I Need A Visa?All information can be found via the link below on VISA information: https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor
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What is life like outside the academy?Students can explore the stunning North East countryside and experience the vibrant city life nearby. Cultural landmarks, shopping centres, and recreational activities provide a well-rounded British experience.
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What are the programme costs?We offer a Full Season & Half Season Programme. * Excluding Flights £30,000 for Full Season (including accommodation) - 9 Months £18,000 for Half Season (including accommodation) - 6 Months
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Are scholarships available?At present, we do not offer scholarships. However, our team can advise on potential external funding options for eligible students.
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Where will I live during my studies?International students are housed through our partnership with Hackett Properties, offering safe, modern, and comfortable accommodations near the academy.
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Is accommodation guaranteed?Yes, all international students are guaranteed accommodation for the duration of their studies.
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What sports facilities are available?Students have access to state-of-the-art sports facilities, including our high-performance gym equipped with the latest Perform Better equipment, training pitches, and courts.
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Who are the coaches?Our experienced coaching staff hold top-level qualifications and have a proven track record of developing athletes in their respective sports.