Academy celebrates education success

Academy Results

Norwich City’s Academy is celebrating a strong set of academic results across Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5.

The 2024-26 scholars (KS5) achieved a 100 per cent Distinction rate in the Sporting Excellence Professional Apprenticeship, seven per cent above the National Academy average.

In their BTEC Sporting Excellence and Performance qualification, 100 per cent passed, with 68 per cent achieving a Distinction* and 75 per cent achieving Distinction+ grades.

The cohort’s A Level results also saw 100 per cent achieve A-D grades, with 66 per cent achieving A-C. All scholars also achieved the required Level 2 qualification in English and Maths, with a 100 per cent pass rate in the Functional Skills English and Maths qualifications taken this year.

Academy Tutor Rebecca Blunsden-Ford said: “The cohort demonstrated a strong commitment to achieving the highest possible grades across all programs studied. Their Apprenticeship results were exceptional, reflecting an excellent understanding of the attributes, behaviours, and responsibilities required to succeed as a professional football player.”

U18 Head Coach Jimmy Unwin added: “Well done to everyone involved with these recent results. 

Good educational results are really important for an academy footballer. It helps them develop good habits, discipline, and a strong attitude, which can benefit them both on and off the pitch.”

The Academy’s KS4 scholars also produced excellent results.

100 per cent achieved at least grade 4 in Maths, with 70 per cent achieving grade 5. In English, 90 per cent achieved at least grade 4, with 80 per cent reaching grade 5.

Overall, 90 per cent achieved at least grade 4 in both English and Maths, while 60 per cent achieved at least grade 5 in both.

YDP Phase Lead Greg Crane said: “I am incredibly proud of all the players and their hard work during their Y11 school year.

"We pride ourselves at NCFC Academy on our collaborative approach to developing the players, which enables them to shine in both football and academic progress.”

The Academy’s off-pitch learning has also continued, with the second-year scholars completing a Laws of the Game course on August 13.

All players passed the assessment, with three scoring 98 per cent and two achieving 95 per cent.

Academy Manager Scott Smith said: “Well done to everyone on their results.

"Education is an important part of the development of our young players, alongside their football. We’re immensely proud of the environment and opportunities we can provide at the Academy to support their development both on and off the pitch.”

All at Norwich City would like to congratulate all scholars on their achievements and thank their families, partner schools and multidisciplinary staff for their continued support.