MEN'S & WOMEN'S
INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY
EXPERIENCE A GAP YEAR & TRAIN WITH U.K. NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
MULTIPLE NATIONAL MALE & FEMALE CHAMPIONS
Park View Academy of Sport has established itself as a powerhouse in college football, consistently achieving national success in both the English Colleges Football Association (ECFA) League and the National Football Youth League (NFYL). Our men’s and women’s teams have dominated at the highest level, showcasing elite talent, tactical intelligence, and a winning mentality. This success has not only earned us national championships but has also provided our players with opportunities to compete on the international stage.
Our men’s squad has secured multiple ECFA and NFYL titles, including an unforgettable league and cup double in 2019. The team’s relentless attacking style and disciplined defense saw them go unbeaten, scoring over 100 goals in a single season. Meanwhile, our women’s team has also risen to the top, claiming national titles and representing England in global competitions. Their victory in the ESFA U18 National Final at Stoke City’s Bet365 Stadium solidified their reputation as one of the country’s leading teams.
For international students, joining Park View Academy of Sport means training and competing at an elite level, with access to top-tier coaching and a professional football pathway. Our national championship-winning squads prove that our high-performance program, led by UEFA-qualified coaches, develops players ready for the next step—whether that be professional football, scholarships in the USA, or university progression in the UK. If you aspire to play at the highest level while receiving world-class education and support, Park View Academy of Sport International Academyis the place to be.
MULTIPLE 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 program 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 program 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 fixtures 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.
ELITE FOOTBALL
DEVELOPMENT
PERSONAL GROWTH
GAIN LIFE SKILLS
EXPERIENCE U.K
FOOTBALL CULTURE
BE PART OF A
WINNING CULTURE
BENEFITS OF A
GAP YEAR
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
THE U.K.
OUR
TESTIMONIALS
APPLICATION
PROCESS
PARENTAL BROCHURE
FOOTBALL PROGRAMME
RECIEVE 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.
John
Gamble
Director of Football
(UEFA B)
Colin
Wotherspoon
Men's Football Coach
(UEFA C)
Rachel
Hepple
(Tutor)
Michael
Nelson
Men's Football Manager
(UEFA A)
Willie
Donachie
Men's Football Coach
(UEFA PRO)
Craig
Bewick
Women's Football Manager
(UEFA B)
Mark
Goldsborough
Women's Football Coach
(UEFA C)
Michael
Barron
Men's Football Coach
(UEFA A)
Ross
Morecroft
Goalkeeping Coach
(UEFA B)
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 ECFA College League, facing strong opposition from across the region in a structured, high-intensity environment. This league offers regular fixtures, ensuring players have consistent game time to develop their technical, tactical, and physical attributes.
In addition to midweek fixtures, players can gain valuable experience in weekend football, representing teams in leagues such as the Northern League, Wearside League, or Durham County League. These leagues provide a challenging platform for players to test themselves in competitive senior football.
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 partnerships 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
Our dedicated strength and conditioning coaches tailor individual programmes to suit each player’s needs, ensuring they build strength, power, speed, and endurance to excel on the pitch. Sessions focus on functional movements specific to football, combining exercises that improve agility, balance, and core stability. Players also engage in injury prevention routines, with targeted exercises designed to strengthen key muscle groups and improve flexibility.
With access to professional-grade gym equipment and expert coaching,
Players follow structured programmes that evolve throughout the season. Whether improving explosive power for sprinting, developing stamina for consistent performance, or building strength to compete physically, our performance gym plays a crucial role in preparing players for the demands of high-level football.
Our staff also educate players on recovery techniques, mobility work, and nutrition to ensure they maintain peak condition throughout their time at the academy. By combining elite coaching with state-of-the-art facilities, we ensure every player has the tools to unlock their full athletic potential.
CATAPULT ONE
PODS
PHYSICAL METRICS RECORDED IN TRAINING & GAMES
REHABILITATION
CENTRE
INJURY PREVENTION & TREATMENT
VEO
CAMERA
GAMES ARE RECORDED FOR PLAYER ANALYSIS
WELLBEING
TALKS
RECEIVE TALKS THAT LOOK AT MENTAL WELLBEING
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
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 - On-Field Training
11:00 - 13:00 - Player Analysis & Tactical Review
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 (Pre-Match Activation)
10:00 - 11:00 - On-Field Training (Set Pieces & Game Prep)
11:00 - 13:00 - Match Day Preview & Opposition Analysis
13:00 - 17:00 - Downtime / Team Bonding Activities
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 - On-Field Training (Position-Specific)
11:00 - 13:00 - Tactical Session & Video Analysis
13:00 - 14:00 - Gym & Mobility Work
14:00 - 16:00 - Optional Training
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 ENVIROMENT
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
LIFE IN U.K.
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.
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 seamless. 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
APPLICATION PROCESS
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) £15,500 for Half Season (including accommodation)
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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 accommodation 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.