Merstham FC - Football and Education

In partnership with Merstham FC, Volenti Academy is launching a new football and education programme for September 2027, combining full-time study with football on the club’s brand-new 4G pitch.

For students entering Year 12 in September 27, this is an opportunity to train, study and play at a senior football club, with experienced coaches and a proven record of helping young players progress.

Coaching will be led by Jamie Decruz, Merstham’s first-team manager and a senior Volenti coach, supported by Volenti coaches and members of the first-team squad. You’ll work on your technical ability, understanding of the game and physical preparation, with regular competitive football in the National Youth Alliance and other midweek leagues.

Our relationship with Merstham already delivers opportunities. Over 10 Volenti graduates have featured in the club’s first team over the past few years. In the last two years, players from our Merstham U18 programme have signed professional contracts with clubs including Coventry City and Wycombe Wanderers, while others have secured full scholarships to US universities.

Our U18 partnership also reached the FA Youth Cup Fourth Round Proper against Chelsea in 2024/25, followed by the Second Round Proper against Stevenage the next season.

You’ll develop in an environment where the first-team manager sees your progress. Opportunities to step into senior football are earned through performance, attitude and readiness. We want players who love football and are keen to learn, whether their ambition is to play at a higher level or build a career in sport beyond playing.

You’ll study vocational sports-based qualifications taught in person at the club. Teaching and football will be planned together, so you can work towards your qualifications while developing your game.

Your studies can help you take the next step towards further education and careers in areas such as coaching, fitness and sports development. Volenti brings experience from established football and education programmes across London, supporting young people as they work out what comes next.

We welcome players from Merstham’s youth section, local schools and grassroots clubs, alongside Volenti’s wider network. You do not need to be an existing Merstham or Volenti player to get involved.

If you’re in Year 11, join us for our first Football & Education Open Event. Get on the brand-new 4G pitch, meet the coaches and show us how you play. Our first Open Event is planned for October half term, with further opportunities throughout the school year. Come and experience the coaching, see the facilities, learn more about the pathway and find out about joining us in September 2027.