South Devon College offers a highly successful Football Academy for aspiring footballers, delivered in partnership with Torquay United Football Club (TUFC).
As the official Youth and Education Partner of National League South club TUFC, the Academy combines a high‑performance football programme with full‑time study in Sports Science or Sports Coaching for students aged 16-19.
The Academy has an outstanding track record, having reached three national elite AoC Cup finals in the last five years, reflecting the quality of coaching, competition and player development within the programme.
Students train as part of the Academy on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, with a structured Wednesday match programme providing regular competitive fixtures to showcase talent and support progression.
Training takes place on the College’s all‑weather 3G pitch at the Sports Centre, which is also used by the Torquay United first team. This shared training environment creates genuine development opportunities, with the Academy’s top performers able to gain exposure to, and train alongside, TUFC first‑team players.
From September 2026, the Academy First Team (Elite Pathway) will compete in the National Youth Alliance League, representing Torquay United Football Club. This offers a unique elite competition pathway not available at other providers in the local area. Alongside the Elite Pathway, two further Academy squads compete in the AoC College League, ensuring players compete at an appropriate level for their development.
Students benefit from access to services used by professional players, including sports science support, nutrition guidance, gym facilities and performance analysis, supporting both performance and long‑term athletic development.
This partnership provides an unrivalled football and education pathway, supporting students to develop as players, students and future professionals.
Train at an elite level while studying full time, combining professional football development with qualifications that support your future.
Train and compete in a structured programme designed to challenge you against high‑level opposition.
You will train in professional‑standard facilities with professional coaches and mentors.
Select the coach below to read more about their professional background and experience.
Funded incentives are available for employers to recruit apprentices through South Devon College, whether you want to upskill existing staff or bring in new talent - now is the right time to invest in apprenticeships.
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A space designed for you. At the heart of the new offer is the Sixth Form Hub, a dedicated student space, with laptops provided to support your learning.
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Flexible, employer-led training designed to help you gain in-demand skills and secure better job opportunities.
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At South Devon College Sixth Form, you have the freedom to choose your study options, selecting from both A Levels and applied subjects.
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