Kingsley School and The Ferdinand Collective

The next generation of footballing talent in North Devon has been presented with a unique opportunity to train under the guise of Premier League icons.

Kingsley Devon, an ambitious full-time football and education program for 16–19-year-olds has launched an exciting initiative that unites the elite coaching philosophy of The Ferdinand family with Kingsley's outstanding academic provision, exceptional facilities, and unwavering commitment to student wellbeing.

An official Trial Day will be held at Kingsley Devon on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Founded by Julian Ferdinand and supported by his sons, ambassadors Anton and Rio Ferdinand, The Ferdinand Collective stands for more than just football. It's a national movement shaped by the belief that football has the power to transform lives, build character, and create belonging.

FC Rise's core philosophy, "Always believe in yourself. Always work hard", is the heartbeat of the programme. It offers exceptionally talented players who have been released from academies, excelled in grassroots football, or are looking to reignite their football journey and forge a career in the football industry.

FC Rise Devon brings this mission to the South West, aligning perfectly with Kingsley's holistic education and personal development approach. This collaboration ensures the young players receive the highest-quality coaching and development programmes, play against the best teams in the country, and have access to development pathways and opportunities with a range of professional football clubs at home and abroad.

"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."

Players selected for the FC Rise | Kingsley Devon 1st XI squad will train for up to 14 hours per week within their academic timetable, supported by coaching that mirrors the demands of the professional game.

They'll compete in the English Schools FA Super League, challenging themselves against the best of the best from across the country.

Training takes place at Kingsley's state-of-the-art sports campus, featuring: 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.

This infrastructure supports year-round performance, fitness, and development.

“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."

FC Rise | Kingsley Devon students follow a fully integrated academic and athletic timetable. Academic options include: Three A-level subjects from Kingsley's full sixth-form curriculum; CTEC Sports Science (OCR Sport & Physical Activity Extended Diploma – equivalent to 3 A-Levels)

FC Rise | Kingsley Devon is committed to making elite football and education accessible to talented players, regardless of background. A range of automatic and merit-based scholarships is available:

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 all other applicants who meet the school's football scholarship criteria (details available on the Kingsley website)

These scholarships reflect the shared values of Kingsley and The Ferdinand Collective: removing barriers, unlocking potential, and investing in the future.

Trial Day – Tuesday, May 27, 2025

The first official FC Rise Devon Trial Day will take place at Kingsley School, Devon on Tuesday, May 27, from 11am to 4pm. Prospective players will train with coaching staff, tour the facilities, chat with Kingsley Admissions and learn more about this exceptional opportunity.

Register now: The Ferdinand Collective | Kingsley School Devon Future Dates – Open Day with Anton Ferdinand June 11, Kingsley Devon - Train with Anton Ferdinand