Folkestone Invicta Football Club (FIFC) and Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT) are excited to announce that starting in September 2025, CACT, in collaboration with SCL Education, will manage and operate the Folkestone Invicta full-time football and education academy at the Alcaline Stadium in Folkestone.
This free, two-year further education programme will allow students to pursue an NCFE Level 3 extended diploma in sport while participating in training and playing in a high-level football environment.
CACT will deliver all football aspects of the programme, while SCL Education’s expert tutors and team will deliver the full-time education programme. Meanwhile, FIFC will provide the Alcaline Stadium as the perfect environment for any sport-inspired student.
The programme is open to recruitment and is for any male or female students currently in Year 11 looking at further education opportunities or students looking to change their path who are in years 12 or 13.
All students will have clear playing pathway opportunities at FIFC as well as employability opportunities with CACT as a sports coach within the south-Kent community.
Facilities available to students include:
- A brand-new 3G Pitch
- Step 3 stadium to train and play in
- Newly-renovated classroom with added rooms for group work
FIFC and CACT have entered into a three-year partnership which will allow for stability for this programme.
Josh Healey, Folkestone Invicta Chairman, added: “Folkestone Invicta FC is delighted to announce a new partnership with the Charlton Athletic Community Trust, set to begin on September 1st, 2025.
“CACT has a proven track record of delivering post-16 programmes across the south-east, and this collaboration marks the first of many promising new opportunities at Folkestone Invicta.
“As part of the partnership, students will gain invaluable work experience opportunities across various departments within the club, including hospitality, media, coaching and physiotherapy.
“In addition, they will have the opportunity to train and play within both our men’s and women’s teams, further enhancing their development both on and off the pitch.
“This partnership reinforces Folkestone Invicta FC’s commitment to providing pathways for young people while strengthening our ties within the community.
“We look forward to welcoming students in September 2025 and embarking on this exciting journey with CACT”.
Michael Ward, CACT’s Head of Football and Sports Development said: “We are thrilled about this new opportunity to collaborate with Folkestone Invicta in creating an elite environment for young people to learn and grow as footballers.
“We will leverage our expertise and experience to guarantee a professional and safe atmosphere for all students.
“The post-16 football and education programme will provide current Year 11 students with an excellent pathway for further education over the next two years. Students will engage in a comprehensive course while having opportunities to develop and enhance their skills as players in a football environment.”
Richard Styles, CACT’s Football Development Manager (Further Education Academies) added: “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to expand our academy at Folkestone Invicta.
“Our goal is to enhance, develop and support young, talented players across Kent as they pursue their dreams and ambitions in football.
“As a local resident, I have a deep understanding of the significance and support behind Folkestone Invicta Football Club and the role it plays in our community. The club are essential for football, facilities and opportunities in the area.
“These are exciting times for everyone involved with CACT and Folkestone Invicta, as we work together with a shared vision and philosophy.
“Our goal is to create fantastic opportunities and a clear pathway for local players to develop and excel in their football journey for years to come.”
Arran McManus, SCL Education’s Curriculum & Performance Manager for the South East, said: “I am excited that our post-16 students will have the amazing opportunity to study at Folkestone Invicta Football Club next year.
“This move marks a significant step forward in providing an inspiring and professional environment where students can excel both academically and athletically.
“By integrating education within a real-world sports setting, we are enhancing their learning experience, supporting their ambitions and preparing them for future success. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on their development.”
For more information, please visit charltonafc.com/charlton-athletic-community-trust or contact CACT’s South Kent Football Development Officer, Richard Styles, at Richard.styles@cact.org.uk.
