FC Rise | Kingsley Devon: Launching the Next Generation of Football Talent

Kingsley School, in partnership with The Ferdinand Collective, is proud to introduce FC Rise | Kingsley Devon—an elite football and education academy designed to empower young footballers both on and off the pitch. This exciting initiative unites world-class coaching with exceptional academic provision, providing a unique pathway for talented players in North Devon and beyond.

A Vision Rooted in Purpose

At the heart of FC Rise is a powerful philosophy: “Always believe in yourself. Always work hard.” Founded by Julian Ferdinand and supported by his sons Anton and Rio Ferdinand, The Ferdinand Collective is a national movement that believes football has the power to transform lives, build character, and create a sense of belonging.

"Rio and I know the power of football — how it shapes not just athletes but confident, strong individuals," said Anton Ferdinand, Ambassador of The Ferdinand Collective. "We're proud to bring FC Rise to Kinglsey, Devon, to give young people in this region the same belief, direction, and identity that football gave us."  

The partnership with Kingsley School brings this inspiring vision to life in the South West, ensuring that young athletes receive not only top-tier coaching but also a holistic education that nurtures their growth as players and as individuals.

A Shared Mission: Character, Opportunity, and Growth

Kingsley School and FC Devon are partnering to bring this fantastic opportunity to football-mad kids in Devon and beyond.

At Kingsley, we aim for young people to achieve success and happiness through their passions," said Rob Pavis, Head of Kingsley School Devon. “The FC Rise | Kingsley Devon programme truly embodies that commitment. This partnership empowers talented footballers from the UK and from around the world to train like professionals, excel academically, and grow into confident, capable young adults. 

" This is football with purpose," added Andy Rose, FC Devon. "We're not just developing players - we're shaping futures. With Kingsley, we've found a partner that shares our belief in people, community, and what football can do both on and off the pitch."

The FC Rise | Kingsley Devon Experience

Players selected for the FC Rise | Kingsley Devon 1st XI squad will benefit from a unique training schedule, dedicating up to 14 hours per week to football development while pursuing a fully integrated academic curriculum. They will compete in the English Schools FA Super League, challenging themselves against the best teams in the country, while training in Kingsley’s state-of-the-art sports facilities:

• North Devon’s only FIFA and World Rugby-approved 3G pitch

• Multiple grass football pitches

• Full-size sports hall, netball, and tennis courts

• Outdoor basketball courts

• A martial arts dojo, surf academy, gymnasium, and fitness suite

Academic Excellence On and Off the Pitch

At Kingsley School, academic achievement is equal to sporting prowess. Students within the FC Rise programme follow a structured academic timetable, which includes:

• Three A-level subjects from Kingsley’s full sixth-form curriculum

• CTEC Sports Science (OCR Sport & Physical Activity Extended Diploma – equivalent to three A-Levels)

This blend of elite sport and academic rigour ensures that students are well-prepared for both professional sporting careers and further education pathways.

Scholarships and Accessible Opportunities

FC Rise | Kingsley Devon is committed to removing barriers for talented athletes. A range of scholarships is available to make this exceptional programme accessible to players from all backgrounds:

• 25% Scholarships: Automatically awarded to all players selected for the 1st XI squad

• Up to 85% Scholarships: Awarded to the top three players in the 1st XI each year

• Up to 25% Football Scholarships: Available to other applicants who meet the school’s football scholarship criteria

Upcoming Events

Kingsley School will host an Official Trial Day on May 27, 2025, to mark the launch of this exciting partnership. Prospective players will train with elite coaches, tour Kingsley’s premier sports facilities, and learn more about this inspiring programme. Additionally, Anton Ferdinand will be at Kingsley for a special Open Day on June 11, 2025—a unique opportunity to train with a football legend and explore what FC Rise | Kingsley Devon offers.

Join Us and Rise

Whether you’re an aspiring footballer or are passionate about the broader aspects of the game, FC Rise | Kingsley Devon is a place where talent is nurtured, character is built, and futures are shaped. Join us, and rise to your full potential.

For more information or to register for our Trial Day, please visit:

FC Rise | Kingsley Devon Application Form