Young women from across England are taking part in the first residential of England Football’s Rising Leaders programme at St George’s Park this weekend.
The programme is designed for ethnically diverse young women aged 16 to 19 who want to develop their confidence, coaching knowledge and leadership skills within football.
Four-day residential at the national football centre
The first residential runs from Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 November. England Football says participants receive practical development in leadership, communication, confidence and coaching, supported by online workshops around the residential programme.
Accommodation and meals are provided as part of the programme. A second residential is scheduled for 14 to 17 May 2027.
Building a pathway into the game
Rising Leaders is intended to help young women see a place for themselves across football, including coaching, volunteering and wider leadership roles. The residential format allows the cohort to learn together and build networks with others at a similar stage.
Applications for this intake closed on 21 September, so this weekend is not a public drop-in or late-entry opportunity. Young people interested in future programmes should follow official England Football youth leadership updates rather than travelling to the venue.
Details of the programme and its eligibility criteria remain available in the England Football announcement.
Photo: England Football.