We are delighted to launch a new football programme with Kesgrave High School (KHS). The programme, that will launch in September 2021, will see 6th form students at the school combine a full football programme alongside their studies. KHS has a large 6th form and offer over 40 A-level and BTEC courses. They are adding Sports BTEC options in September. This will give students on the football programme complete choice over their academic studies.

“Working in combination with a school gives students the best of both worlds. Taught by education specialists and coached by football specialists,” said Darren Eadie. Alongside his role as Joint Manager of the Club, Darren will head up the football programme. The boys will train regularly throughout the school week. There will be an U18 team based at KHS playing in the college league. The boys will also be able to play for Leiston U18s in the Thurlow Nunn mid-week league, as well as our senior teams on Saturdays.

“This will give our 16-18 year olds a similar football experience to that which occurs in the pro game. It gives them the best possible opportunity to develop all aspects of their game,” said the former Premier League player. Darren will be joined by Dave Williams and Dale Threadkell as coaches for the programme. Both have worked with this age group for 3 seasons, alongside Steve Foley who supports all of Leiston’s EJA’s teams.

“This programme will also enable the boys to develop athletically. They will have opportunity to play lots of football, as well as work on their strength and conditioning. We will have to monitor their workloads carefully, but we hope that through these key development years we are able to turn out a generation of young players who are extremely well equipped to play senior football” said Dave Williams.

Working with Dale Threadkell and Steve Foley, the U16 squad have increased their training frequency this season. Several of them have already played in the 18’s and A team, which has been a great learning experience for them. Eleven of the current squad already attend KHS so it was a natural alliance to forge. The senior teachers at KHS have been really supportive.

Trevor Elmy, a former senior teacher, has also been involved in the Programme’s development. It was clear following numerous conversations with KHS senior teachers that we were all invested in making this work. There is good evidence that sports participation and achievement can improve academic achievement. KHS has a strong reputation academically and was a perfect choice for the club to work with. We think this will be a popular course with parents and students and we are really excited to get going!’