Football Programmes Partner with Ryde School

Southampton FC’s Football Programmes department are delighted to announce a new partnership with Ryde School, supporting the school’s ambition to further enhance its already strong sporting provision and football development pathway.

Located on the Isle of Wight, Ryde School has a long-standing commitment to developing pupils both academically and physically, underpinned by values of ambition, responsibility, and courage. This partnership will strengthen the school’s football offering, building on an environment that already encourages participation and performance across a wide range of sports.

Through the collaboration, Southampton FC will work closely with Ryde School to deliver an authentic and sustainable Football Development Programme for pupils and staff, aligned with the club’s player development philosophy.

The partnership will provide:

• Integration of Southampton FC coaching methodology into the school’s football programme

• Regular delivery sessions from Southampton FC coaches

• Ongoing support and development opportunities for school staff through coach education

• Access to Southampton FC facilities, including visits to Staplewood Campus and St Mary’s Stadium

• Insights into career pathways within the football industry, both on and off the pitch

Recognised globally for its work in youth player development, Southampton FC aims to support Ryde School in creating a progressive and inspiring football environment that benefits pupils across the whole school community, while also creating opportunities to positively impact football development across the wider Isle of Wight.

Tom Grevatt, Head of Football Programmes at Southampton FC, said:

“Ryde School has a fantastic reputation for delivering a well-rounded education, and we’re excited to support their continued development in football.

This partnership allows us to bring the Southampton Way into the school environment, helping to enhance both player development and the wider football culture within the school community. We also hope the partnership can contribute positively to the continued growth of football opportunities more broadly across the Isle of Wight.

We’re looking forward to working closely with staff and pupils to create meaningful and lasting impact.”

Will Turner, Head Master, from Ryde School added:

“We are thrilled to announce this partnership with Southampton FC and it is a fantastic opportunity to build on the growing popularity of football at Ryde. It is an exciting step forward in our sports provision and the partnership will elevate our football to a more professional and competitive level.

We are also really pleased to take this opportunity to offer some additional sports scholarships at Ryde, including football, for the start of the next academic year in September, with full and flexi boarding options available to families.”

This partnership marks an exciting step forward for both organisations, combining Southampton FC’s expertise in elite player development with Ryde School’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Together, the collaboration will aim to inspire, develop, and support the next generation of young players both within the school and across the wider Isle of Wight community.

We have a growing portfolio of Affiliate Partners which supports like minded clubs and organisations with their ambitions on and off the pitch. For further details on the Ryde School affiliate partnership, or for enquiries, email: [email protected].