London’s football legacy isn’t just about legendary clubs and packed stadiums. it’s also a city brimming with talent development. Across its boroughs, countless coaching companies are shaping the next generation of players, from grassroots beginners to elite youth prospects. Choosing the right football coaching company is a decision that can shape a player’s growth, skill, and even future career.
In this guide, you’ll discover the top 10 football coaching companies in London, as well as everything you need to know to choose the right one for yourself or your child.
What Should You Look for When Choosing a Football Coaching Company in London?
A reputable football coaching company should offer more than just a football pitch. The coaching staff must be professionally qualified, usually with FA or UEFA licences, and background-checked to ensure child safety. The environment should be positive and structured, designed to promote learning while building character and confidence. Whether you’re a parent of a five-year-old beginner or an aspiring semi-pro adult, the curriculum should be aligned to meet individual goals and development stages.
Facilities also matter. Well-maintained pitches, both indoor and outdoor options, and appropriate equipment are vital. Lastly, reviews and testimonials can give valuable insights into real-life experiences helping you identify programmes that deliver consistent results and satisfaction.
How Do Football Coaching Companies in London Train Kids and Adults Differently?
While football itself remains the same sport, the approach to coaching varies significantly between children and adults. In youth training, sessions often emphasise enjoyment, basic techniques, and social skills, with a goal to build confidence in a friendly setting. Coaches work on essential skills such as dribbling, passing, and positioning, often weaving these into fun games and small-sided matches.
In contrast, adult football coaching is more performance-driven. It focuses on tactical awareness, physical conditioning, and sharpening techniques through drills that simulate real match scenarios. Many coaching centres offer adult-only sessions in the evenings or on weekends, targeting either recreational fitness or competitive progression.
What Are the Top 10 Football Coaching Companies in London?
1. Arsenal Football Development – “Train the Arsenal Way”
Arsenal Football Development offers an immersive coaching experience based on the official training philosophy of Arsenal FC. With UEFA and FA-licensed coaches at the helm, the programme is structured to help players not only enhance their technique but also understand tactical awareness and matchplay decision-making.
The academy offers camps and weekly training across North London and beyond, often on high-quality pitches and under the direct oversight of experienced professionals. Training mirrors the club’s first-team principles and includes passing drills, pressing strategies, and finishing exercises.
Arsenal’s legacy of nurturing talent means participants are exposed to pathways that can extend into academy football or talent scouting opportunities. The programme is inclusive of all abilities, with dedicated groups to ensure each player receives attention.
Focus Area
Advanced Curriculum Implementation
Ideal Candidate
Aspiring youth players seeking professional-level coaching
Pricing: From £35/session (group); holiday camps from £220/week
- Website: www.arsenal.com/arsenalfootballdevelopment
- Phone: +44(0) 1444 444777
- Address: 99 Wadham Road, London, E17 4LU
- Email: ask@arsenal.co.uk
2. Tottenham Hotspur Global Football Development – “Developed by Spurs. Designed for You.”
This programme offers a structured environment where players of all levels can train under the principles and philosophy of Tottenham Hotspur FC. Designed by professionals working at the club, the development team focuses on physical, tactical, technical, and psychological aspects of the game. Sessions are held at various training venues, including the state-of-the-art Hotspur Way, where elite training equipment enhances player development.
Players have access to mentorship, talent identification opportunities, and a clear structure for progression. This coaching experience is holistic, combining traditional football drills with innovation in technique analysis and sport science. From aspiring professionals to new players, Tottenham’s coaching environment is comprehensive and inclusive.
Key Attribute
Performance-Driven Sessions
Target Group
Young athletes aiming for high-level competition
Pricing: Holiday camps start at £195/week; individual sessions by inquiry
- Website: www.tottenhamhotspur.com
- Phone: 0203 544 8500
- Address: 782 High Road London N17 0BX
- Email: academy@tottenhamhotspur.com
3. Chelsea FC Foundation – “Inspire. Educate. Motivate.”
Chelsea FC Foundation delivers football coaching across London and the South East, focusing not only on football excellence but also on social inclusion and education. Their sessions are often run at top-quality venues such as Cobham and Stamford Bridge-linked facilities, guided by FA and UEFA-qualified coaches.
The foundation’s youth development model balances technical instruction with personal development, offering training for boys and girls of all ages and abilities. Players receive constructive feedback, video analysis (at higher levels), and exposure to club-linked scouting opportunities.
It also offers inclusive programmes for people with disabilities and girls-only training sessions, making it one of London’s most socially conscious football training providers.
Training Style
Community-Centred Excellence
Best Fit
Families seeking inclusive, high-quality youth development
Pricing: £10–£30 per session (depending on location and age group)
- Website: www.chelseafc.com/en/foundation
- Phone: 02079578221
- Address: Stamford Bridge, Fulham Road London SW6 1HS
- Email: foundation.enquiries@chelseafc.com
4. London Football Academy – “Where Passion Meets Play”
Located centrally, London Football Academy prides itself on providing high-quality football coaching in a welcoming, diverse, and competitive environment. This academy is particularly known for its work with younger age groups, laying strong technical foundations through engaging sessions. Coaches focus on ball mastery, game intelligence, and sportsmanship, promoting growth both on and off the field.
The academy also offers team matches, participation in local leagues, and links to semi-pro clubs for advanced players. It’s a great environment for children who are just beginning their football journey as well as those looking to take their skills to the next level.
Core Element
Foundational Skill Building
Preferred Audience
Young players aged 4–16 seeking structured learning
Pricing: £12–£18 per session (discounted block bookings available)
- Website: https://www.londonfootballacademy.co.uk/
- Phone: 020 8374 1344
- Address: Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AX
- Email: info@londonfootballacademy.co.uk
5. Pro Elite Football Academy – “Your Pathway Starts Here”
Pro Elite Football Academy is a high-performance coaching company aimed at guiding young talent into the competitive football world. With development squads, elite teams, and private coaching available, Pro Elite tailors training to each player’s needs. Their focus on tactical understanding and position-specific training helps athletes develop like professionals.
They frequently collaborate with scouts and organise showcase events, giving players exposure to clubs at higher levels. The academy runs regular fixtures, offers strength and conditioning training, and provides individual feedback and player reports to monitor progress.
Signature Trait
Player Progression and Exposure
Perfect Candidate
Young, competitive players with professional ambitions
Pricing: £20–£40 per session depending on programme
- Website: https://proelitefootballacademy.co.uk/
- Phone: 07900 143364
- Address: Brunel University Sports Park, Kingston Ln, Uxbridge UB8 3PH
- Email: info@proelitefootballacademy.com
6. We Make Footballers – “Every Child Can Be a Footballer”
As a franchise spread across the UK, We Make Footballers has developed a consistent, structured training model that’s ideal for beginners and young learners. Sessions focus on fundamentals
passing, dribbling, spatial awareness delivered in an engaging and friendly environment. With a strong emphasis on fun and progression, children gain confidence quickly while also learning discipline and teamwork. Their coaches are known for their approachability and are all qualified and vetted.
Their 1-on-1 and small group formats allow for greater individual attention. This academy is often the first stop for children before progressing to elite coaching.
Hallmark Quality
Beginner-Friendly Coaching Framework
Recommended For
Kids aged 4–12 just starting their football journey
Pricing: £10–£15 per session; free trials available
- Website: http://wemakefootballers.com/
- Phone: 07572 988886
- Address: 25 Cathnor Rd, London W12 9JD
- Email: info@wemakefootballers.com
7. Elite Football Coaching – “Train Smarter, Play Better”
Elite Football Coaching specialises in small group and one-on-one sessions led by ex-professional footballers. Their training philosophy revolves around technical enhancement, decision-making under pressure, and confidence-building.
Designed for both kids and teens with serious interest in progressing, they use tailored programmes that incorporate agility, ball control, and game intelligence. EFC is particularly suited for players already competing in teams but looking for extra refinement. The coaches also work closely with parents and clubs to offer detailed player reports.
Main Feature
High-Impact Technical Development
Tailored To
Ambitious players needing focused, elite-level guidance
Pricing: £40–£60 per session
- Website: www.elitefootballcoaching.co.uk
- Phone: 07515 997111
- Address: Nutter Lane, Wanstead, London, E11 2JA
- Email: info@elitefootballcoaching.co.uk
8. Shooters Football Academy – “Football for Everyone”
Shooters FA combines competitive coaching with strong community values. Offering structured training for children from age 6 to 15, the academy runs multiple training locations across South London.
Coaches balance competitiveness with encouragement, ensuring each player gets personalised guidance. While performance is encouraged, the emphasis is on participation, enjoyment, and respect. The academy has links with local youth leagues, giving players the opportunity to put their skills to the test in real match environments.
Unique Offer
Community-Focused Learning
Designed For
Kids seeking friendly, structured grassroots coaching
Pricing: £10–£18 per session
- Website: shootersfootball.com
- Phone: 01992 524 393
- Address: Rayley Ln, North Weald Bassett, Epping CM16 6AR
- Email: Info@mini-shooters.club
9. Kinja FC Football Coaching – “Educate Through Football”
Kinja FC runs one of London’s most holistic youth coaching programmes, integrating football with character and educational development. Sessions are planned around learning themes and personal values, creating a nurturing environment for young players.
Coaches are not just tacticians they’re mentors. The club fields teams in local and national competitions, allowing players to grow in a real club environment. It also offers girls’ football, summer camps, and individual performance plans.
Defining Characteristic
Education-Based Player Development
Best Suited For
Children who thrive in values-based, learning-focused environments
Pricing: £12–£20 per session; camp packages available
- Website: www.kinjafc.co.uk
- Phone: 01234567890
- Address: 6 Larkfield AvenueKenton
- Email: info.kinjafc@gmail.com
10. Bloomsbury Football – “Play Without Barriers”
Bloomsbury Football is a non-profit that delivers professional-standard football training at affordable rates. With training centres across Central and North London, it reaches thousands of children every week.
The academy removes barriers through subsidised programmes and inclusive policies, offering training for boys, girls, and children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The coaching standard is remarkably high, with competitive teams playing in structured leagues. Parents value the academy’s transparency, ethics, and transformative community impact.
Special Skillset
Social Impact Through Sport
Catered Towards
Families seeking quality, affordable, inclusive football
Pricing: £5–£12 per session; scholarships available
- Website: www.bloomsburyfootball.com
- Phone: 07724 608 600
- Address: King’s Cross, London WC1X 9DT
- Email: info@bloomsburyfootball.com
How Much Does Football Coaching Typically Cost in London?
Football coaching in London can range in cost depending on the type of service and the company’s prestige. Group sessions for children are typically the most affordable option, while private training costs more due to the one-to-one nature.
| Type of Session | Price Range | Notes |
| Group Youth Sessions | £10 – £25 per session | Typically weekly, term-based packages |
| One-to-One Coaching | £30 – £60 per session | Highly personalised training |
| Holiday Camps | £100 – £250 per week | Intensive training during school holidays |
| Adult Group Training | £10 – £20 per session | Evening or weekend training options |
Many academies offer free trial sessions, term discounts, and financial aid to support accessibility for all players.
Do Football Coaching Companies in London Offer Flexible Schedules and Locations?
Most football coaching companies in London offer flexible training options to suit a variety of lifestyles. Parents juggling work and school schedules will find weekend and after-school programmes, while adults typically have access to evening sessions.
Companies like We Make Footballers and Bloomsbury Football run sessions across multiple boroughs, making location less of a barrier. Booking is generally straightforward via online platforms, where you can manage session dates, trial bookings, and payments. Some coaching centres even offer mobile apps for easier access to schedules and training updates.
Can Football Coaching Companies Help Players Go Professional?
While not all players aim to go pro, some academies offer clear pathways toward competitive and professional football. Companies like Pro Elite Football Academy and Arsenal Development have connections with scouts and higher-level academies.
Players may be invited to participate in showcase matches, tournaments, or development trials where they are observed by representatives from professional clubs. Several academies have successfully helped young players progress into club academies, scholarships, and even international football schools.
That said, turning professional is a combination of skill, mindset, opportunity, and timing and having access to the right coaching is a strong start.
Are There Football Coaching Programmes in London for Total Beginners?
Absolutely. Most coaching companies cater to complete beginners. These sessions are designed to be inclusive, non-competitive, and welcoming to players who may be picking up a football for the first time.
Coaching focuses on core skills like ball control, passing, and spatial awareness, often within fun games and drills that eliminate performance pressure. Progression is monitored, and players are grouped according to ability rather than just age, ensuring everyone learns at their own pace.
How Safe and Regulated Are Football Coaching Companies in London?
Player safety is a top priority for professional coaching companies. All trusted academies have coaches who are DBS checked (criminal background vetted) and trained in safeguarding. Child welfare officers are often part of the organisational structure, ensuring players are supported on and off the pitch.
Facilities follow health and safety regulations, and there are clear protocols for medical emergencies, incident reporting, and parental communication. In sessions, coach-to-player ratios are kept low to ensure proper supervision and focused coaching.
Comparison Table of Top 10 Football Coaching Companies
| Company | Location | Ages | Google Rating | Website | Highlights |
| Arsenal Football Development | North London | 5–18 | ★★★★★ (4.8) | arsenal.com | Elite pathway via Arsenal FC |
| Tottenham Hotspur Development | North London | 5–18 | ★★★★☆ (4.6) | tottenhamhotspur.com | UEFA coaches, professional pathway |
| Chelsea FC Foundation | West London | 5–19 | ★★★★☆ (4.5) | chelseafc.com | Girls’ programmes, inclusion focus |
| London Football Academy | Central London | 4–16 | ★★★★☆ (4.7) | londonfootballacademy.com | Community and affordability |
| Pro Elite Football Academy | West London | 4–18 | ★★★★★ (4.9) | proelitefootball.com | Private coaching, scout links |
| We Make Footballers | All boroughs | 4–12 | ★★★★☆ (4.8) | wemakefootballers.com | Beginner-friendly and fun sessions |
Elite Football Coaching |
East London | 7–16 | ★★★★☆ (4.6) | elitefootballcoaching.co.uk | Ex-pro trainers and small groups |
| Shooters Football Academy | South London | 6–15 | ★★★★☆ (4.5) | shootersfa.co.uk | Grassroots development and community feel |
| Kinja FC Football Coaching | North West London | 6–18 | ★★★★☆ (4.6) | kinjafc.co.uk | Focus on education and development |
| Bloomsbury Football | Central London | 3–16 | ★★★★★ (4.9) | bloomsburyfootball.com | Affordable, inclusive, social impact |
Conclusion
Finding the right football coaching company in London can make a lasting difference in a player’s development whether you’re nurturing a young talent, getting back into the sport, or chasing a professional dream. As one of the world’s leading football cities, London offers a wealth of coaching options that cater to every ability, background, and ambition.
From the elite facilities of Arsenal and Tottenham to the inclusive approach of Bloomsbury Football and the structured foundations of We Make Footballers, each of these top 10 coaching companies brings something unique to the pitch. They’re not just training players they’re building confidence, character, and community.
FAQs About Football Coaching Companies in London
What’s the ideal age to start football coaching in London?
Children can start as early as 4 years old, which helps develop coordination and confidence from an early age.
Are there female-focused football coaching companies in London?
Yes. Organisations like Chelsea FC Foundation and Bloomsbury Football offer specific programmes for girls.
How long before I see improvement in football skills?
Visible improvements often occur within 6 to 12 weeks of consistent, structured training.
Can weekend-only football training be effective for kids?
Yes. Well-structured weekend programmes can yield strong development results even with once-a-week attendance.
Do these coaching companies offer goalkeeper training?
Most top academies include specialised goalkeeper coaching or provide it as an optional add-on.
What gear should beginners bring to a football coaching session?
Basic gear includes football boots, shin guards, a water bottle, and suitable sportswear.
How can I assess the quality of a football coach in London?
Check for FA/UEFA licences, experience, personal rapport with players, and feedback from past clients.