Chelsea FC Success

The Holmesdale School, based in Snodland is celebrating after two Year 7 students were selected to join the renowned Chelsea Football Club Development Centre.

Our school here was delighted to host the high-profile academy coaching session, giving Holmesdale students the opportunity to experience elite-level football and showcase their skills to professional coaches.

In total, 29 of our aspiring female footballers from Years 7 to 10 took part in the two-hour session, which featured a range of drills and activities designed to develop technical ability, teamwork and game understanding.

Chelsea FC Women's Academy coaches praised the enthusiasm, commitment and talent shown throughout the event by our school’s young people. Following the session, 11 of our students here were invited to attend further trials, with Year 7 students Scarlet and Lexi subsequently earning places at the Chelsea FC Development Centre.

Their selection marks a significant achievement, and our school leaders at The Holmesdale School say it reflects the dedication the students have shown both in school and through their involvement in football outside the classroom.

As members of the Chelsea FC Development Centre, Scarlet and Lexi will now take part in additional weekly coaching sessions delivered by Chelsea FC coaches, helping them develop their skills while being supported through the club's wider talent pathway.

The coaching session at Holmesdale forms part of our school's ongoing commitment to providing opportunities that encourage participation in sport and support students in reaching their potential.

Ami Burnham, Teacher of PE at The Holmesdale School, said:
"We were delighted to welcome Chelsea FC Women's Academy to the school and provide such a valuable opportunity for our students. The attitude, effort and enthusiasm shown by all of the girls throughout the session was outstanding.

"We are incredibly proud of Scarlet and Lexi for earning places at the Chelsea FC Development Centre. This is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the hard work they have put into developing their football talent. We look forward to following their progress and celebrating their future successes."

Lexi, Year 7 student joining Chelsea Football Club Development Centre, said:
“I'm excited to continue this journey and being blessed with this opportunity, I hope that this will create a stepping stone for my future career in football. I encourage other young football players to keep their heads held high, look towards the future and make their own path.”

Scarlet, Year 7 student joining Chelsea Football Club Development Centre, added:
“I am pleased to say that I have made it into Chelsea Development. I just hope I can keep going and get more opportunities in my future and hopefully I go far even though we have to play with boys, which is a good challenge. We keep pushing and try our best. I can't wait for more training to learn something new. Sometimes challenges will come your way but always remember to be resilient and always keep pushing for more opportunities.”