Football
We let talent dictate the path.
Our Vision: To get the best out of every individual we work with through unrivalled contact time and provide every player with a future football pathway once they leave Bede’s.
We have a total of 14 teams and around a third of the School regularly representing the School and all players receiving at least two training sessions per week plus fixtures on Saturdays. We have an extensive fixtures list, playing some of the strongest football schools in the country such as Bradfield, Eton, Millfield and many more. Unusually for an independent school, Bede’s Football Programme also runs throughout the year, rather than just during the winter months.
In 2018, Bede’s became a member of the HUDL league at Senior 1st XI level, which consists of the strongest independent footballing schools across the country. We were delighted to be announced HUDL League Champions in May 2020 and EFSA U18 National Champions in May 2022; this is a fantastic achievement, and testament to our players' hard work and dedication to the sport.
The Junior A teams play in the Elgin Southern League with the U15s being current Champions in the 2025/26 season.
Premier League Excellence Meets World-Class Education
Bede’s School is delighted to announce a prestigious new commercial partnership with Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion FC. This collaboration unites two of the South East’s leading institutions, establishing a strong alignment rooted in shared values, community engagement and a relentless focus on developing excellence.
Football overview:
Each year, Bede’s Football department tours to top European academies. In the last four years, we have visited AFC Ajax in Amsterdam, Real Madrid and Athletico Madrid and SL Benfica, Lisbon.
Pictured is the Bede's pre-season tour to SL Benfica in October 2024.
Coaching is led by our Director of Football, David Caryer, UEFA A pre and Sussex coach. He is supported by former professional footballer, Dan Harding (Brighton and Hove Albion, Southampton and Ipswich Town); and Director of Swerve Football Academy, Oliver Davies.
Football at Bede's
Senior Football
Bede’s fields six senior teams and three junior teams at Year 9 and 10, allowing for high levels of participation. To maintain a consistent and high standard of coaching, all of our coaches participate in comprehensive Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training.
Throughout the season, players are assessed and may move across teams, reflecting their individual progress, effort, and attitude. This flexible approach allows us to ensure that each pupil is placed in an environment where they can thrive and contribute most effectively.
Girls Football
Bede’s is deeply committed to elevating the women’s game. Our dedicated, year-round Girls’ Football Programme offers both performance and participation pathways, competing in ISFA leagues, ESFA national tournaments, and County Cups.
Guided by UEFA B and FA Youth Advanced coaches, female players receive specialized coaching, physical assessments, and individualised development plans.
Elite Football
The elite football program at Bede’s Senior School serves as a vital bridge for Brighton & Hove Albion Academy players, offering a bespoke “dual-career” pathway that harmonises high-level sporting development with academic rigor. Players like Fraser Widdop, Liam Doyle, and Issy Ranger benefit from a professionalised daily schedule that integrates 8-10 hours of weekly on-pitch training and specialised strength and conditioning directly into the school day.
Brighton & Hove Albion
A Major Premier League Partnership: Premier League Excellence Meets World-Class Education
Bede’s School is delighted to announce a prestigious new commercial partnership with Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion FC. This collaboration unites two of the South East’s leading institutions, establishing a strong alignment rooted in shared values, community engagement and a relentless focus on developing excellence.
Masterclasses & European Tours
Pupils benefit from guest masterclasses with former Bedians and pro players like Solly March, Bruno Saltor, and Paul Scharner. Our competitive 35+ fixture schedule is complemented by international football tours to historic European clubs such as AFC Ajax, Real Madrid, and SL Benfica.
Leadership & Dual-Career Pathways
We focus on developing well-rounded individuals off the pitch as well. Through our accredited Sports Leadership Programme (Levels 1 & 2), pupils log community coaching hours in a Learning Evidence Record (LER), building essential life skills and enhancing future university and career applications.
