From September 2026, in partnership with Volenti Academy, City of London Academies will extend its elite football and education pathway into north London. Players will train at a high level and study a full sixth form programme that supports their next steps both on and off the pitch.
Study at City of London Academy Highbury Grove sixth form. Train like a young professional player and compete in league and cup football. Expect elite coaching matched with subject-specialist teaching, high expectations, and structured support to maximise academic choice. This will be a programme that excels in both football and education.
The football
- Elite coaching from experienced coaches who have played the game
- Competitive league and cup fixtures, plus showcase games
- FA Youth Cup pathway via Merstham FC U18s
- Routes into the professional and semi-professional game for top performers
- Weekly strength and conditioning to build speed, power and strength
- International tours and selected tournaments
The education
- Study at Highbury Grove sixth form
- Choice of A Levels and Level 3 BTECs subjects
- Timetables coordinated around training and fixtures
- Subject-specialist teaching with high expectations
- UCAS, US scholarship and apprenticeship guidance
- Clear pathways to university, apprenticeships and employment
Register your interest
Please register your interest in our new Football Academy at Highbury Grove and we will be in touch with more information about how to apply for September 2026. Students* will need to be enrolled at Highbury Grove sixth form and complete a trial with Volenti Academy.
* Please note, we are currently only recruiting boys onto our 2026 programme.
How to apply
To be considered for the Football Academy you must apply to join Highbury Grove sixth form on Applicaa and select ‘Football Academy’ alongside your preferred subject choices when you apply. Applicants will also have to complete a trial with Volenti Academy. We recommend registering your interest in advance to receive more information about upcoming trials and events from Volenti.