FC Rise | Kingsley Devon Kicks Off with a Powerful First Trial Day

On a wet and windswept day in North Devon, Kingsley School welcomed a remarkable group of young footballers from across the region to the first official FC Rise | Kingsley Devon trial day. Despite the pouring rain, the players arrived determined and focused, perfectly reflecting the ethos of the FC Rise programme:

“Always believe in yourself. Always work hard.”

This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Kingsley School’s sporting provision, following the launch of its partnership with The Ferdinand Collective and newly rebranded FC Devon (formerly Romar Sports). Together, the organisations are reshaping what it means to combine elite football training with a rigorous, supportive education pathway.

A True Test of Grit and Character

With slick conditions on the school’s FIFA-accredited 3G pitch, players were tested physically, tactically, and mentally. The FC Devon coaching team, led by Andy Rose, put the keen players through their paces, including technical drills, positional play, small-sided games, and fitness assessments.

But it wasn’t just about footballing ability.

The staff and coaches were impressed by each participant's professionalism, respect, and maturity. Throughout the day, players also participated in individual interviews, which gave the Kingsley and FC Devon teams insight into their motivations, academic interests, and long-term ambitions.

“The boys gave it everything,” said Andy Rose, Programme Director at FC Devon. “It wasn’t an easy day weather-wise, but we saw the kind of resilience and character that matches exactly what FC Rise is about. We’re incredibly excited about what’s to come.”

More Than Just Football

The FC Rise | Kingsley Devon programme is inspired by the mission of The Ferdinand Collective, an initiative founded by Julian Ferdinand and supported by Rio and Anton Ferdinand. The programme goes beyond the pitch and is designed to develop not just talented footballers but grounded, confident, and ambitious young adults.

Rooted in community, resilience, and opportunity, FC Rise is committed to providing a structured, holistic experience that supports students in every aspect of their journey — from physical performance to emotional well-being and academic growth.

“Our vision is to give young people every chance to succeed,” said Rob Pavis, Head of Kingsley School. “We’re not just developing players — we’re developing resilient individuals. FC Rise is a natural fit for Kingsley because we share those values: hard work, belief, and the understanding that success comes from the whole person, not just athletic talent.”

Academic Excellence Meets Elite Coaching

What sets FC Rise | Kingsley Devon apart is its full-time, integrated model, where football excellence is balanced with high-quality academic opportunity. Students selected for the programme will train for up to 14 hours per week within their academic timetable, with access to:

• Kingsley’s full Sixth Form A-Level curriculum

• CTEC Sports Science (equivalent to three A-Levels)

• One-to-one academic and careers guidance

• A range of scholarship opportunities for high-performing players

With North Devon’s only FIFA and World Rugby-approved 3G pitch, alongside a sports hall, gym, surf academy, and coaching specialists on-site, Kingsley School offers one of the most advanced training environments in the South West.

A Powerful Partnership

The trial day also marked the first major showcase of FC Devon. With a strong youth development and performance coaching track record, FC Devon has become the South West’s home for aspiring footballers looking to access professional standards locally.

“This is football with purpose,” added Anton Ferdinand in a recent statement. “We want to create an environment where players grow as people and professionals — where their education, mental health, and opportunities are just as important as what they can do with a ball.”

What’s Next?

Following the success of the May 27th trial day, Kingsley and FC Devon are now reviewing applications and finalising places for the first FC Rise | Kingsley Devon 1st XI squad. Further trial opportunities and open days will be announced soon.

For more information or to register interest in the programme, visit: