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Sports Programmes & Enrichment


Varndean College has a commitment to providing sporting opportunities for all students at the college. There are two pathways for students to access these opportunities; through our enrichment programmes or by representing the college as part of a college team.

The sports programmes offer the opportunity for students to receive coaching in their selected sport whilst studying at the college. Students will benefit from expert coaching, allowing them to develop their sporting performance, technical skills and tactical understanding. Fixtures & training take place within the college day, usually on a Wednesday afternoon. These programmes run in conjunction with local clubs providing an onward pathway for students to continue with the sport in the community and compete on a local, county and regional level. There are opportunities available in the following sports: GIRLS FOOTBALL, GIRLS NETBALL, BOYS RUGBY & BOYS BASKETBALL.

Boys Football Academy

Russell Martin

Our unique football performance programme allows students to receive high level training and competition at county, regional and national level alongside their studies. The 1st XI represents the college in the AOC South East league, with the 2nd XI competing in the Sussex Schools County League. Both teams also play in numerous cup competitions locally and nationally, meaning that students will have a range of opportunities to showcase their abilities. The programme is delivered in conjunction with the Russell Martin Foundation, with UEFA qualified coaches holding experience of playing and coaching in the professional game.

Recent seasons have seen numerous players selected for the Sussex Schools boys squad, four players became England College Internationals and one player represented England Schools boys, going on to gain a professional contract at Brighton & Hove Albion. Recent successes have included Sussex Schools 1st XI league title and SSFA County Cup finalists. In 2022 the 1st XI reached the last 16 of the ECFA National Cup and the quarter finals of the ESFA National Cup and are AOC South East regional champions. The programme includes:

  • Full time training programme on grass and 3G pitches
  • Strength and conditioning programmes with good gym facilities
  • The opportunity to study for the FA Level 1 coaching certificate
  • Links and partnerships with semi-professional & professional clubs

The sports enrichment offer provides students with many opportunities to pursue their interests at a formal, yet recreational level. The college runs a variety of clubs and societies through the college week including; table tennis, badminton, gym enrichment, yoga, Zumba, social football, mixed volleyball and mixed basketball. Students are actively encouraged to speak to the PE Department if there is an interest in a particular area.