Established in 2007 as the UK’s first private football academy, FCV International Football Academy has spent nearly two decades helping aspiring footballers from around the world develop their skills, continue their education and pursue their ambitions.
Based in Leicestershire, England, we provide an environment where young players can combine professional-standard football coaching with academic study, competitive football and personal development.
Our academy welcomes students from a wide range of countries and backgrounds, bringing together young people who share a passion for football and a determination to succeed.
Since opening in 2007, FCV has welcomed aspiring footballers to England, providing opportunities to develop their abilities within a structured and supportive academy environment.
From the beginning, our approach has extended beyond football training alone. We recognise the importance of education, personal development and preparing young people for opportunities both within and outside the game.
Over the years, we have supported players progressing into professional football, international representation and further education. These achievements reflect the dedication of our students and the experience of the people who have helped guide their development.
Today, FCV continues to welcome aspiring footballers from across the world, building on its history while adapting to the changing demands of football and education.
We believe young footballers should have the opportunity to pursue their sporting ambitions while continuing their academic development.
Our Football with Education programmes combine structured football training with academic study, allowing students to work towards recognised qualifications alongside their development as players.
Through our educational partnerships, students can pursue pathways including BTECs, A-Levels and degrees, depending on their chosen programme and eligibility.
By combining football with education, we aim to help students prepare for a range of future opportunities, whether they continue within the game or pursue careers in other fields.
Every player arrives at FCV with different experiences, abilities and ambitions. We recognise that development is an individual journey, and our approach reflects the importance of helping each student work towards their own goals.
Training focuses on improving technical ability, tactical understanding, physical preparation and decision-making, supported by competitive match experience.
Alongside football development, we encourage discipline, teamwork, independence and personal responsibility. These qualities are important not only for players hoping to progress within football but also for their wider education and future careers.
Our aim is to create an environment where students are challenged to improve, supported in their development and encouraged to make the most of their opportunities.
Our coaching team brings together extensive experience across professional football, academy development and senior coaching.
Head of Football Grant Brown has a background in professional playing, coaching and management, while former professional defender Jack Hobbs has represented clubs including Liverpool, Leicester City and Nottingham Forest.
Alongside experienced coach Shane Clarke and the wider coaching team, they provide players with valuable insight into the standards and expectations of competitive football.
The experience of our coaching staff helps create a training environment that combines practical knowledge of the game with a commitment to developing young players.
Since 2007, FCV has helped aspiring footballers take important steps in their development, with former students progressing into professional football, representing national teams and pursuing opportunities within the game internationally.
We are proud of the achievements of players who have passed through the academy and the different pathways they have followed.
While every player’s journey is unique and progression is never guaranteed, our focus remains on providing an environment where students can develop their abilities, gain valuable experience and work towards their ambitions.
FCV is based at Grace Dieu Manor Park, a residential campus set in the Leicestershire countryside.
The campus brings together football training, education, accommodation and recreational facilities, allowing students to live, learn and train within one environment.
For players joining us from overseas, academy life also offers the opportunity to develop independence, build friendships and experience life in England alongside other aspiring footballers.
Our setting provides a dedicated environment where students can focus on their development both on and off the pitch.
