First Kick
to Academy
A structured, four-stage pathway from first session to academy-level competition. Coached by people who have done it inside Premier League academies.
First Kicks & Development Centre
Where every journey starts. Weekly academy-level coaching in Ilford or Hornchurch for players of all abilities. Ball mastery, technical work, and a love of the game built session by session.
Squad Development Night
A dedicated midweek session for our registered squads. Tactical understanding, team shape, and game preparation ahead of every weekend of Echo League football.
Advanced Development Programme
For players pushing towards the top of the grassroots game. Smaller groups, higher intensity, and coaching from staff who have worked inside Premier League academies.
Advanced Development Programme+
The final step on the pathway. An extended Friday session at Romford for the players closest to academy level, competing against established academies and regional tournament opposition.
Six Fundamentals
Every session is built around the technical and mental qualities that academy coaches look for. Not general fitness. Not attendance trophies. Real development, tracked session by session.
Ball Mastery
Close control, first touch, and dribbling confidence built through repetition in every session.
Game Understanding
Reading the game: when to press, when to hold, how to find space and use it.
Technical Ability
Passing, receiving, shooting, and defending with the precision that separates academy players from the rest.
1v1 Duels
Winning the ball and keeping it. Fundamental one-on-one technique that transfers directly to matchday.
Confidence
Taking players outside their comfort zone in a supportive environment so they take risks and express themselves.
Belonging
A genuine football family. Players develop faster when they feel they belong, and that culture starts on day one.
Academy Experience. Every Session.
Coach Ron
Crystal Palace Academy coach & scout (2017-2019)
Ron coached and scouted in the Crystal Palace Academy between 2017 and 2019 and previously founded and ran his own grassroots club. He has developed multiple players who went on to sign professional contracts, and brings that same care and know-how to every session, whatever a player's starting point.
- Technical ability
- Game understanding
- Individual development
Coach Jai
Crystal Palace + Arsenal academies, 15+ years
Jai has more than fifteen years of academy coaching experience across the Crystal Palace and Arsenal academies. He specialises in technical development and ball mastery, helping every player, from first-timers to experienced footballers, build the skills and confidence to enjoy their game.
- Technical development
- Ball mastery
- 1v1
Find your child's
place to play.
Browse the timetable, pick a session that suits your family and send us a quick enquiry. We'll help you find the right fit, whatever their experience.