Where skills match ambition
Welcome to the Oxford United Advanced Football Programme; a new course that allows you to study full time for a sports qualification with Abingdon & Witney College whilst training with Oxford United in the Community.
This full-time programme, open to female and male students aged 16-18 years, provides you with the opportunity to develop your professional skills, knowledge and behaviours whilst studying an industry recognised sports qualification and further developing your footballing proficiency.
You’ll study at our Abingdon Campus, and train directly with Oxford United UEFA B qualified coaches. Through this unique programme you’ll also have direct access to Oxford United’s Bangkok Glass Training Ground; part of the £4.9m sports complex near Horspath. Here you will train and compete in a competitive league and cup tournaments against other teams across the region whilst representing Abingdon & Witney College and Oxford United in the Community.
Together, our academic tutors and Oxford United’s coaches will develop you mentally and physically. We’ll teach you the determination and resilience you need to succeed, all whilst building the strength and confidence you need to be at the top of your game.
Peace of mind to focus on being your best
First and foremost, the Oxford United Advanced Football Programme recognises the importance of your academic development. Through this new partnership talented and aspiring players won’t have to pick between football and academic development; you can do both.
When you’re not training at the club, our specialist team will be there to help you prepare for your future career. This new study programme includes a sports based vocational qualification, GCSE English and/or maths as required, a supportive tutorial programme, work experience, and enrichment activities.
Outside of your studies you’ll have access to our full college experience. Immerse yourself in our student life, take part in our college wide trips and make the most of our pastoral care and guidance. Throughout your time at Abingdon & Witney College, we’ll be there by your side as you embark on this unique journey.
Stevie Kinniburgh from Oxford United, introduces the new Advanced Football Programme, and we hear from George Crowley from Abingdon & Witney College on the application process. The programme is now also taking applications from female players.
Applications for the 2025 Oxford United Advanced Football Programme are open. Please see information below to apply.
What's in it for you
- A Level 2 or Level 3 sports based vocational qualification depending on entry grades
- Regular training at Oxford United’s Bangkok Glass Training Ground with UEFA B qualified coaches
- An opportunity for free Oxford United home game tickets
- Participation in a competitive league and cup tournaments
- Oxford United training kit for matches.
Jackson, a second year student said the programme has helped him realise what he wants from his future, all while developing his football skills.
“I want to play at the highest level I possibly can. At the same time, we’re all aware playing professionally is always likely to only ever be a dream.
That’s why being able to train twice a week and play against other EFL clubs in the National Youth League really appeals to me because I can be the best version of me on the pitch and study hard off it.
My ambition is to use this qualification to go to university and continue studying sport while playing football. It’s a great programme – I couldn’t recommend it enough.”
Ready to show what you can do? Come to our trials
We expect places on this exciting programme to be competitive.
Apply now to secure your place at the next Open Training Session, where you will have a chance to show off your skills and meet the Oxford United and College teams. The sessions are for both the male and female teams.
Click 'Apply Now' to see the full list of upcoming Open Training Session dates. We will invite anyone who has applied for the programme to come along and find more. The session will include presentations from Abingdon & Witney College and Oxford United in the Community, a training session on the pitch or in the cages, and a chance to meet coaches from the course. The venue will be Oxford United’s Bangkok Glass Training Complex OX4 2RY.
About Abingdon & Witney College
Abingdon & Witney College is an award-winning further education provider in Oxfordshire; located across four main sites in Abingdon, Bicester, Witney and Common Leys Farm near Hailey.
We are proud to offer a wide range of full time vocational courses, apprenticeships, higher education and adult learning courses.
Our vision is to be a college where everyone achieves more than they believe possible. We are ambitious for our students, staff, community and partner organisations.
Together we can achieve the extraordinary.
Future Opportunities
We’re proud to partner with Oxford United in the Community and this new programme will be our second collaboration, in addition to our community programme running with Oxford United's Inclusion team, for adults with learning differences.
