Football is one of the most popular sports globally, and it’s easy to see why!
Give any group of youngsters a football, and you’re sure to find laughing and cheering before long.
There’s something about the beautiful game that just brings people together. It’s also a great way to keep fit and develop important life skills like sportsmanship, resilience, and teamwork.
Do you want to introduce your child to an active, fun-filled football class? Keep reading to discover the best football classes near you.
Football classes are good for:
- Physical fitness
- Social skills
- Teamwork
- Motor skills
Football for toddlers
Toddler football classes are a great introduction to the sport for little ones.
You can expect friendly, patient coaches to use lots of interesting equipment (like pint-sized footballs and colourful cones) to keep your mini-Messi engaged and entertained.
This will help them develop physical stamina and gross motor skills, along with teamwork, problem-solving, and communication abilities.
At what age can toddlers start football?
Children around the age of 2-3 years old can start joining in on football activities.
At this age, their motor skills and coordination are developed enough to grasp basic concepts, such as running and kicking the ball.
Football for toddlers near you
Little Kickers offers fun but structured toddler football classes across Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, Harrow and more.
Soccer Days football classes in Essex and London will help your toddler learn all of the football fundamentals in a fun, welcoming environment.
Funn Clubb uses lots of toys and fun activities to keep your toddler engaged in football classes. Classes are run across London.
ABC Sports Stars has a very relaxed approach to help your toddler build a love for the sport. Classes are run in Lewisham and London.
Find football classes near you: view football classes
Football classes for kids
In children’s football classes, your child will have the chance to develop individual skills like dribbling, passing, and shooting. As they progress, they’ll start taking part in football games.
It’s a great sport for children to develop gross motor skills and stamina. Valuable social skills and friendships are also forged through teamwork and the spirit of healthy competition.
What is the best age to start football?
Children as young as 3-4 years old can begin their soccer adventure in a friendly, fun environment. However, they usually need to be about five years old to really understand the game.
Football classes for kids near you
Little Kickers specialises in kid’s football for those 18 months to 8 years old. Find them at Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, Harrow and more.
Soccer Days in Essex and London has a unique children’s football program to build fitness, confidence, and communication.
Funn Clubb runs football classes across London with a focus on providing a fun experience for your child.
First Touch in Hyde Park London teaches children all the fundamentals to prepare them for competitive football.
Football training for teenagers
Football training sessions for teens typically become more rigorous and structured.
Some will continue to play recreationally, while others may want to represent their local county league. This will give them the opportunity to play proper matches and even be scouted by bigger leagues.
Regardless of your teen’s football goals, it’s a great way for them to stay fit while learning about teamwork and sportsmanship.
Football classes for teenagers near you
First Touch works with 11-13-year-old teens in small groups to perfect their advanced football skills. The training takes place in Hyde Park, London.
Danny Grant Soccer School offers holiday football camps for 4.5-12-year-olds in a spacious, modern sports hall with an outdoor area.
Find football classes near you: view football classes
Goalkeeper training
During goalkeeper training, children learn specialised goalkeeping skills that will help to improve their diving saves, footwork, positioning, and communication with teammates.
At what age should children start goalkeeper training?
Young ones can start specialised goalkeeper training from as young as six, but some recommend only starting training later at around nine and up. This is because it’s important for goalkeepers to be exposed to outfield football skills before choosing to specialise as a goalkeeper. (1)
Goalkeeper training near you
KEEper Clinic runs goalkeeper training for 5-17-year-olds in the Upper Holloway area.
Football coaching
Do you want more focused attention that will really help hone your child’s skills? Football coaching involves one-to-one or small group sessions that concentrate on specific skills or certain goals they may have.
Football coaching near you
Check out our full list of football coaching sessions near you. Many can be booked on-demand at a convenient time for you.
Best football classes in London
Gold Talents Academy Limited (Hertfordshire), Soccer Days (London and Essex), and Little Kickers (Croydon & Warlingham, West Sussex, Brighton and Kent) specialise in fun, engaging children’s football classes for 1-8-year-olds.
Football Magic Coaching in London offers regular classes along with small private group or 1-to-1 training for 3-16-year-olds.
Danny Grant Soccer School in London has a football camp for 5-13-year-olds to boost their skills and confidence on the field.
Find football classes near you: view football classes
FAQs about football classes
Can a 2-year-old play football?
2-year-olds may not be able to play a full football game. But they can be exposed to fundamentals like kicking and dribbling.
How do I get my 2-year-old into football?
To spark your 2-year-old’s interest, start by playing simple games together that involve kicking a softball around the house or backyard. Remember to make it enjoyable with lots of cheering and high-fives!
How can I help my 7-year-old with football?
You can help your 7-year-old with football by practising skills with them, watching games together, and enrolling them in classes. At this age, children learn best in a fun, friendly atmosphere. So always remember to fuel their love for the sport with praise and enthusiasm.
How much are football classes?
Football sessions can range from about £10 – £20 for a 1-2 hour session. Pricing also depends on the age of your child and class location.
What age should a child join a football academy?
Your child needs to be at least 9 years old to join a football academy in the UK. (2)
How do I get my child into a football club?
To get your child into a football club, enrol them in classes or camps so they can start playing to improve their skills. Next, you’ll want to get involved with your local league to play in matches. This will allow you to connect with coaches and scouts and showcase your child’s talent.
How can my son get scouted?
Getting your child scouted by a football academy requires consistent training and a bit of luck.
Give your child ample chances to develop their skills and look for opportunities to showcase them to scouts. This might involve attending trials and playing for your local county league.
