Excelsior Football Academy launches and takes their first win!

In September 2023, Excelsior Academy introduced the Excelsior Football Academy.

Leading the way in school football in the West End of Newcastle, Excelsior Football Academy has introduces a 5 to 7 year curriculum-based, football experience for 11-19 year old students.

The mission is to create a bespoke product to attract new students to Excelsior Academy through football.

Leader of PE and head coach Mr Glenwright said:

"From many years of experience, this is a tried and tested model which is proven to attract new students into school. We will develop sporting potential into talent, and focus on the academic effort and attainment of students as part of the programme too."

The Year 7 Squad have made significant progress since the start of the season, focusing inventively on position specific technical and tactical details at each game. In their most recent game, the squad played a very well drilled Great Park team in which we unfortunately lost 0-1. Each game is giving every player involved an invaluable experience in becoming better both on and off the pitch. 

Students that are chosen for the programme have the opportunity to engage in three hours of football activity per week alongside the core curriculum.

Within Excelsior College, those who study Sport will have the opportunity to enrol into the College Academy squad. 

Mr Glenwright added:

"One of my key beliefs is that when children are interested and engaged, learning thrives. Through this opportunity the children involved will arrive at school knowing they have something to look forward to every day which in turn fuels energy and motivates learners for the rest of the school day. I am using football as a vehicle for positive behaviour change in young people, helping them practise skills that will serve them well in future life, helping every learner realise their potential within sport and in wider life."

This week, the U19 Excelsior Football Academy played a very competitive Kenton side and were victorious with a  4-2 score, their first win of the season. The squad battled hard throughout the match, showing determination and always trying to impose themselves in the right way. The squad are always trying to do the right thing and it is very clear the positive effect Excelsior Football Academy is having on them.