Ryde School partners with Southampton FC

Ryde School has teamed up with Southampton FC to launch a football development programme for pupils.

The affiliate partnership, initially for three years, will give Ryde School access to Southampton’s football coaches and elite training resources.

Boys and girls from Year 3 to Upper Sixth will benefit, and to mark the official launch of the partnership, the school has announced additional sports scholarships, including football, for Year 7 and 9 children to join in September 2026.

“We are thrilled to partner with Southampton FC and it is a fantastic opportunity to build on the growing popularity of football at Ryde,” said Will Turner, Head Master.

“This is an exciting step forward in our sports provision and the partnership will elevate our football to a more professional and competitive level.”

Southampton FC academy staff will regularly visit Ryde School to deliver high-level coaching sessions, while pupils will have opportunities to visit the club’s world-renowned academy, its training ground and St Mary’s Stadium.

“Ryde School has a fantastic reputation for delivering a well-rounded education, and we’re excited to support their continued development in football,” said Tom Grevatt, Head of Football Programmes at Southampton FC.

“This partnership allows us to bring the Southampton Way into the school environment, helping to enhance both player development and the wider football culture.

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

The football programme will run alongside Ryde School’s other main sports, notably rugby, cricket, hockey, netball, and sailing.

With a limited number of extra Sports Scholarships available for September 2026, Ryde School welcomes applications for children joining in Year 7 and Year 9, with up to a 50% remission on fees, subject to means-testing.

Applications can be made via https://www.rydeschool.org.uk/scholarships-and-bursaries and must be received by 1 June 2026.

The partnership with Southampton FC will officially begin at the start of the Autumn Term in September.