16-18 COllege Programme
THE ULTIMATE FOOTBALL EXPERIENCE
Join Talent-X’s Full-Time Football & Education Programme for 2027/28
Are you currently in Year 11 and starting to think about your next steps? Talent-X Football Academy in Redbourn, Hertfordshire, is now gathering interest from both boys and girls for our 2027/28 Full-Time Education and Football Programme.
Our programme offers a full-time, performance-based academy experience for talented young footballers who are completing Year 11 and looking to continue their development both on and off the pitch.
Alongside high-quality football coaching and development, students will gain valuable experience and knowledge within the sport and leisure industry. Our education pathway includes opportunities to work towards:
Level 2 BTEC First Extended Certificate in Sport
Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport
U19 Active IQ qualifications
Additional coaching qualifications
The programme is designed to help players develop their footballing ability, gain recognised qualifications and prepare for future opportunities within football, sport and beyond.
If you are a Year 11 student (U16) and are still deciding on your school or college plans for 2027/28, register your interest today and discover what Talent-X can offer.
Open to talented boys and girls for the 2027/28 season.
The programme is delivered and managed by Virtual Learning UK,
which includes the education, enrichment and qualification delivery.
VLUK employ all teaching and enrichment staff.
More Opportunities, More Experiences
MEDIA DAY
The Facilities
The Pitches
Based at Redbourn Leisure Centre, our College Programme benefits from regular access to a full-size 4G AstroTurf, providing a consistent, all-weather surface for training and match play.
Students also have access to 8 grass pitches, giving the programme a range of high-quality playing surfaces for training, fixtures and match preparation throughout the season.
With dedicated access to both 4G and grass facilities, students can develop their technical ability, tactical understanding, fitness and match performance in a variety of environments.
The Gym
Our College Programme students have full access to the gym facilities at Redbourn Leisure Centre, supporting their strength, conditioning and overall football development.
The gym has recently been upgraded with new equipment, including a replacement Chest Press, Hip Abductor/Adductor, Leg Curl and Leg Extension, along with a brand-new Pec Fly machine.
With dedicated training facilities available alongside their football programme, students can make the most of the gym to support their development both on and off the pitch.
CLASSROOMS & RECOVERY STUDIO
Alongside the football facilities, students have access to two classrooms for lessons, workshops and learning as part of the College Programme.
There is also a studio space for recovery sessions, giving students a suitable environment to focus on mobility, stretching and recovery as part of their wider football development.
The combination of learning and recovery spaces helps provide a well-rounded environment for students both on and off the pitch.
Minibus Travel
Getting to and from College should be simple, reliable and convenient. Our dedicated minibus service provides personalised travel routes designed around where our students live.
With minibuses currently covering Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Harpenden, Watford, Dunstable and Luton, we help make the daily journey to College straightforward for students and parents.
With routes planned around demand, we can provide a practical transport option that takes the stress out of the daily commute, from just £10 per week.
Liam Walsh takes the reins of our Football College Programme as the U16-U18 Academy Manager at Talent X for the 27/28 season. His 15 years of teaching experience, coupled with his keen insight into educational requirements and dedication to nurturing young talent, make him the ideal leader for our course.
What an incredible Open Evening for our 25/26 College Programme.
We shared all the details about our programme and why it’s the best choice for your childs future. A huge thanks to Liam (our programme lead) and Matt & Harrison, who shared their amazing experiences and the benefits of joining.
PLayer Journey
Will St-Clair Burton, a right-footed centre-back, joined Talent X following his release from MK Dons Academy. He went on to represent our U18s side, Chesham United, where he consistently impressed and featured in competitions including the FA Youth Cup.
His performances at U18 level earned him an opportunity with the Chesham United First Team, making his senior debut in a cup fixture while still part of our U18s programme.
After completing his U18s football, Will signed a senior contract with Chesham United at Step 2, where he has continued to feature regularly and progress within the first-team environment, showcasing the pathway from Talent X into senior football.
Exit Routes
These exit routes offer diverse opportunities for individuals involved in football, whether it be through education, playing at different levels, or contributing to the sport in non-playing roles.
Each pathway requires dedication, skill development, and a strategic approach to make the most out of the opportunities available.
Pursue athletic scholarships in the U.S, balancing academics and football through organisations like NCAA or NAIA.
Continue education while playing football at English universities, leveraging strong football programs and potential connections to professional clubs.
Transition from amateur to semi-pro and professional levels by showcasing skills in local leagues and catching the attention of scouts.
Explore coaching opportunities, from youth development to professional teams, or specialise in sports science, analysis, and personal training for football players.
START YOUR JOURNEY
Please fill in this quick 45 second application form to start your journey with us.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Boys & Girls Trial - 26th OCTOBER 2026
Join us on Monday 26th October 2026, from 10:00am to 12:00pm, at Redbourn Leisure Centre.
We’re excited to announce trials for our full-time College Programme for the 2027/28 season, open to both boys and girls, led by Liam Walsh. This is your chance to showcase your ability, work ethic, and passion for the game.
We look forward to seeing you there.
To apply for the trial click the Register Interest button below.