Established in 2007, Tresham Football Academy was one of the pioneers of the football-and-education model in the UK – combining elite coaching with strong academic pathways.

Since then, the Academy has built a proud legacy of excellence, crowned AoC Sport National Champions (2018-19) and ECFA East Midlands Champions on four occasions. Many of our players have progressed into professional football, signing with clubs such as Colchester United FC and Dagenham & Redbridge FC.

Our Men's Teams

Our Men’s Football Academy continues to deliver three high-quality training sessions each week, blending technical skill development with tactical game understanding. Players benefit from Veo video analysis, allowing for in-depth performance review and decision-making refinement, all supported by our outstanding on-site facilities.

Training and fixtures are fully integrated with student timetables, with competitive matches taking place in the England Colleges Football Association league every Wednesday afternoon. Complementing their football training, dedicated gym sessions help build strength, power and resilience, with expert guidance from our Academy Sports Therapist to ensure every athlete trains effectively, reduces injury risk and reaches their full potential.

In 2024, we proudly expanded our provision with the launch of the Men’s Under-23 Academy, a programme designed to give talented players the perfect opportunity to continue both their academic journey and their football development at a high level.

The Under-23 Academy provides a clear and professional pathway for players who want to bridge the gap between college-level football and senior opportunities, whilst studying towards a recognised higher education qualification.

Competing in the prestigious National Football Youth League, players are challenged every week against top academies from across the country, testing themselves in a highly competitive environment that mirrors the demands of the professional game.

Alongside their football development, players combine their sporting ambitions with academic study, choosing from two exciting routes:

  • A Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching, designed to develop practical coaching expertise and prepare students for careers in sport, fitness and education
  • Or the brand-new BSc (Hons) in Applied Sports Science & Coaching, delivered at Tresham College in partnership with the University of Bedfordshire, providing a deeper academic challenge with a strong focus on performance, analysis and applied practice in sport

This unique balance of elite-level football and higher education ensures that players not only maximise their potential on the pitch but also gain valuable qualifications to support a future career in sport – whether that be in coaching, performance analysis, sports science or progressing further into post-graduate study.

The Men’s Under-23 Academy represents the next step in our player pathway, creating genuine opportunities for progression in football whilst investing in long-term personal and professional success.

headshot of a football player

Dion Sembie-Ferris

Dion is undoubtedly one of the most talented players we have had the privilege to work with. With lightning speed, exceptional movement and an incredible work rate, he quickly attracted interest from professional clubs.

This led to a trial at West Ham United FC and, following his release, a trial at Colchester United FC, who subsequently offered him a two-year professional contract. Dion’s breakthrough season included winning the Football League Youth Cup and making his first-team professional debut. He famously created the winning goal on the final day of the season – broadcast live on Sky Sports – that secured Colchester’s place in League One.

Since then, Dion has played for Peterborough Sports in the National League North and recently signed with Scunthorpe United in the National League.

Meet the Coaches

Richard Scott Tresham
Co-Head Coach

Richard Scott

Richard Scott is a former professional footballer with over 250 Football League appearances, having represented Birmingham City FC, Shrewsbury Town FC and Peterborough United FC. Following his retirement from professional football, Richard turned his focus to nurturing the next generation of players, earning his UEFA B licence and developing a reputation for his expertise in player development.

In 2008, he joined Tresham Football Academy as one of our elite football coaches. Since then, Richard has played a pivotal role in our success, helping the Academy secure four ECFA East Midlands titles, a National Championship and guiding two players to the ECFA National Team. Under his mentorship, three players have progressed to professional football, highlighting his commitment to helping young talent reach their full potential both on and off the pitch.

Richard is also known for his fun, approachable personality and is a firm favourite among players within the Academy. He maintains strong relationships with players long after they have left, with many continuing to keep in contact, reflecting the lasting impact of his guidance and support.

Steve Walker Tresham
Co-Head Coach

Steve Walker

Steve has been a cornerstone of our Academy since joining in 2009, bringing over a decade of invaluable experience and expertise to our coaching team.

A UEFA B licensed coach, Steve’s career is rooted in success, having worked across multiple levels of the non-league football pyramid. Most notably, he was a key part of the Spalding United setup that secured a league title and promotion from Step 4 to Step 3 – a testament to his tactical acumen and leadership.

In addition to his achievements, Steve has managed and assisted a range of non-league teams, offering our Academy a unique perspective honed by years of first-hand experience. His strong connections within the local football scene have proven instrumental in helping young players transition into first team opportunities at various clubs, bridging the gap between youth and senior football.

Known for his engaging coaching style and approachable demeanour, Steve is a firm favourite among players. His dedication to developing talent and fostering a positive environment makes him an invaluable member of our team and a driving force behind our Academy’s continued success.

Headshot of a man standing on a football pitch
Goalkeeper Coach

Samuel Starkey

Sam joined our coaching team in the summer of 2022 as our dedicated Goalkeeper Coach. A former student of the Academy, Sam completed his BTEC programme with us before progressing through our Foundation Degree and finishing his final year at the University of Northampton.

Sam is a true Tresham success story. His passion for coaching, deep knowledge of the game and strong rapport with players quickly set him apart. Recognising his potential, we were proud to offer him a teaching role starting in August 2024, allowing him to continue growing his career in sport and education.

Known for his fun, good-natured personality, Sam is highly respected by both coaches and players and has quickly become an integral part of the Tresham Academy team.

Tresham College Facilities

Something for everyone

We have a course for everyone.  Our staff will make sure you slot in at the right level so you can get the most out of your studies too.

Level 2 Diploma in Sport

You will study topics including fitness, anatomy, lifestyle and wellbeing – and lots of football of course.  We’ll also get you started on your coaching career.

Level 3 Diploma in Sport

You will study topics including coaching, health, fitness, nutrition and sport psychology – and lots of football of course.  We’ll also get you started on your coaching career.

Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching

You will study topics including fitness, sport psychology, coaching, anatomy and sport performance – and lots of football of course.  We’ll also get you started on your coaching career.  You will study at the College and your degree will be awarded by our academic partner, the University of Bedfordshire.

The Bedford College Group Sport & Fitness pic 1

Ready to join the next generation of football talent?

Meet our Head Coaches and discover first-hand what makes Tresham Academy of Sport truly exceptional.

To book your place at an upcoming open trial or to arrange a chat with a Head Coach, simply email us at sportsacademy@bedford.ac.uk with your name and phone number. We’ll respond promptly to guide you through the next steps.

Bedford College Sport Level 3

SPORT & FITNESS COURSES

If you are highly motivated, energetic and dynamic, our Sport & Fitness courses will enable you to study and specialise in areas such as outdoor leisure, development and fitness, and personal training.

Find out more