EFL clubs sign young players from the Youth Development Phase (YDP) on a two‑year scholarship agreement, also referred to as an apprenticeship. The agreement includes a requirement to complete an education programme alongside football commitments.
The apprenticeship, delivered by LFE, is a full‑time football and education programme that supports players through the Professional Development Phase (PDP), giving them the opportunity to grow as players and as individuals, developing the skills, behaviours and knowledge needed for a career in professional football.
Academy players are expected to complete their education programme even if they sign a professional contract before the apprenticeship comes to an end.
The typical deadline for scholarship offers in a player’s U16 season is 31 December, by which time clubs have usually confirmed their decisions.
Player Care
Throughout the two-year apprenticeship, players benefit from LFE’s comprehensive personal development and life skills programme which assists in equipping them with the ability to move through life’s challenges.
Each academy has a Head of Player Care who works closely with LFE to ensure players receive the support and guidance needed throughout their journey.
Independent Advice
At any stage it may be beneficial to seek independent advice which is available via the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Youth Advisory service. The Youth Advisory team supports players and their families throughout the academy journey, helping them make informed, balanced decisions while ensuring the welfare, education, and rights of players are protected. They operate a free, confidential service including:
- Impartial Guidance
- Support With Decision-Making
- Player Welfare Advocacy
- Educational & Dual Career Advice
U16 Assessment Trials
If your child is approaching the end of their U16 season, you might be thinking about what comes next. Sometimes players are told that their club won’t be offering them a scholarship. To give them another chance to showcase their potential and attract new opportunities, the EFL runs U16 trials, usually during the February half term.
These events are attended by scouts from a range of clubs and education providers, giving players the opportunity to be noticed, join a new club, or even be offered a place at a college. To attend, players must be registered as an U16 at an EFL or Premier League academy during the current season and be nominated by their club. After the trials, if any scouts have shown interest, the EFL will pass this on.
U16 Development Programme
The Premier League and EFL jointly deliver an annual event designed to offer continued sporting, educational, and personal support for U16 players who have not been offered a scholarship for the following season.
This three‑day residential programme, usually held in April, provides an elite training experience featuring high‑quality football and performance sessions, insight into player pathways and recruitment options, career and education guidance, tailored one‑to‑one action planning, special industry guest speakers, and personalised mentoring.
All food, accommodation, and leisurewear are included, and players must register in advance. Full event information is shared ahead of April.