Southampton FC has announced a new International Academy partnership with Switched On Education UK, marking the expansion of Switched On Education’s programmes to Los Angeles. The collaboration is designed to support the launch of a new soccer focused school and academy programme that will combine fulltime education with elite football development.
According to the announcement, the new programme is scheduled to begin in August 2026 and will integrate Switched On Education’s established school model with Southampton FC’s internationally recognised football development approach. The partnership aims to create a structured pathway for young players to progress both academically and athletically within a single environment.
As part of the agreement, Southampton FC will provide soccer curriculum support, coach education, and access to the club’s academy performance plan and methodologies. This support is intended to help deliver consistent coaching standards and align player development with professional academy expectations, while still prioritising education.
The collaboration will also include an annual player development camp in Southampton. Selected players from Switched On Education will travel to the UK each year to train at Southampton FC facilities, experience The Southampton Way, and gain direct insight into the club’s professional academy environment.
Tom Grevatt, Head of Football Programmes at Southampton FC, said, “We’re delighted to be partnering with Switched On Education’s programme in California, as we continue to expand our International Academy Partner network in the United States. This partnership is built around shared values in player experiences, player development, and long-term progression, and we’re excited to support the launch of their new school programme in Los Angeles.”
He added, “The opportunity for players to travel to Southampton each year and immerse themselves in our environment is a key part of this collaboration, and we look forward to working closely together over the next three years.”
Graham Hill from Switched On Education also welcomed the partnership, stating, “I’m delighted to announce our international partnership with Southampton Football Club. Southampton has an outstanding record of developing young players through a clear philosophy built on technical excellence, character, and care for the whole athlete.”
Hill said the organisation is eager to apply that approach in the United States. “At SwitchedOn Education, we’re excited to bring that approach to young players here in the USA — helping them grow on the field and in the classroom. This partnership builds on the success of our international K-12 education offerings, as we continue creating world class opportunities for student athletes across our programs.”
The partnership reinforces Southampton FC’s commitment to developing young players globally through structured and authentic football programmes. The club noted that it continues to grow a portfolio of International Academy Partners that support likeminded organisations with ambitions both on and off the pitch. Further details and enquiries about the Switched On Education partnership can be directed to global@saintsfc.co.uk.