Volenti Academy

Massive congratulations to Sheldon Kendall on being nominated for EFL Apprentice of the Season 🏆

Sheldon’s journey is exactly what we’re about at Volenti, supporting and developing players to make an impact both on and off the pitch.

Good luck on Sunday 👊

Another big test for the boys this week.

Our U16/U17s faceReading Football Club in a friendly on Wednesday, another chance to compete at a high level and showcase themselves against a professional club environment.

We are delighted to have as part of our post-16 programme at Volenti, working closely with players on our LNS programme.

Dan brings a powerful combination of professional playing experience and high-level coaching, which is evident in the way he communicates and the standards he sets every session.

“I strive to create a deep love for the game in every player. That comes from building an environment where passion, enjoyment and enthusiasm are at the heart of every session.”

A UEFA B licensed coach, Dan currently works at Charlton Athletic as their U9 Lead Academy Coach, delivering technical sessions and supporting player development within the Foundation Phase. Alongside this, he has played across a range of clubs and has represented Antigua and Barbuda internationally since 2018, giving him a genuine insight into what it takes to progress in the game.

Players on our LNS programme benefit from an environment where energy, discipline and enjoyment are all valued, with every session designed to challenge, engage and support long-term development.

Find out more about Dan here:
https://volentiacademy.co.uk/profile/dan-bowry/

Through to the ESFA National Final!

Swipe through for some of the best moments from the semifinal day.

One more to go.

Coombe Wood 2–0 Royal Russell
ESFA U18 Super League National Semi Final ⚽

A big performance from the boys to overcome a well organised Royal Russell side, our independent school neighbours, and secure a place in the ESFA Super League Final.

A historic moment for the programme and the school, with Coombe Wood now heading to the national final.

It also caps off a strong campaign across our programmes, with both CWS and LNS reaching the last 8 in the country, highlighting the level being produced across our pathway.

One more to go.

📍 Stoke City Stadium
🏆 Playing to become England’s number one school

Well done to all players and staff involved. The focus now turns to the final. 👊

NextLevel CoombeWood

FULL TIME: Coombe Wood School 5–1 Portsmouth College ESFA U18 Super League Quarter Final ⚽🏆

A dominant performance from the boys as we secure our place in the FINAL FOUR in the country.

Next up … in the ESFA Super League Semi Final Vs our partners London Nautical School or neighbours Royal Russell School

Either way, a massive game awaits.

Congratulations to our players and staff on a top performance 👊

RoadToTheFinal

CASE STUDY: KWAME POKU (Queens Park Rangers)

Kwame joined our Football & Education programme at 16, studying a BTEC in Sport while representing our A squad in the National Football Youth League. In his second year, after trials with several professional clubs, he signed professionally with Colchester United and broke into first-team football, before stepping up to Peterborough United.

Back-to-back Sky Bet League One Player of the Month awards (September and October 2024) and a place in the League One Team of the Season followed — and he’s now taken the next step with a move to Queens Park Rangers in the Championship.

A powerful reminder of what the right environment, high standards, and consistent work can unlock.