IDA & The University of Sheffield
Football & Education Experience 2026
This unique 5-day residential programme combines elite football development with academic and personal growth. Delivered by Inspire Development Academy (IDA) coaches, University of Sheffield staff, and guest speakers from professional clubs and governing bodies, the experience gives players a true taste of university life and the professional football environment in the UK.
Key Information
The University of Sheffield, in partnership with Inspire Development Academy, is proud to offer the IDA Sheffield Academic Scholarship to outstanding overseas-fee-paying undergraduate students beginning their studies in September 2026.
Cost for this opportunity = £TBA
01
Scholarship Value
£10,000 tuition fee reduction for the first year of study.
£2,500 per year thereafter, subject to continued academic and sporting performance.
02
Eligibility
Begin an undergraduate degree at the University of Sheffield in September 2026.
Select Sheffield as one of your firm choices.
03
Key Dates
Application Opens: TBA
Deadline: 21/03/2026
Results Announced: 28/03/2026
Acceptance Deadline: 03/06/26
04
Selection Criteria
Strong academic background.
Proven football ability and development potential.
Evidence of leadership.
What is it?
Each day includes high-intensity training sessions, tactical analysis, and multiple seminars led by industry professionals.
Alongside this we will be offering exclusive tours and workshops hosted by the University of Sheffield.
You will meet some of the industries leading experts in their field, as well as showcase your ability for the opportunity to gain the IDA scholarship.
Full details of the scholarship, eligibility, application & selection process and all other requirements can be found by hitting the button below.
5-Day Football & Education Experience
Overview
Hosted on the University of Sheffield’s sports campus, this intensive five-day camp combines professional-level football training with academic enrichment and exposure to the UK’s football industry.
Participants will receive technical, tactical, and physical development training from UEFA-qualified IDA coaches, attend seminars from leading organisations such as the Premier League, FA, and EFL, and engage in academic sessions delivered by University of Sheffield faculty.
Below is an example timetable of what you can expect during your time with us at IDA.
Day 1 - Arrival & Orientation
Morning
Arrival and registration at University accommodation
Welcome presentation: “Pathways in Football and Higher Education”
Campus and facilities tour with Sheffield student ambassadors
Afternoon
Introductory technical training session with IDA coaching staff
Fitness testing and individual player assessments
Evening
Team dinner and orientation meeting
Guest speaker: Former professional player on adapting to elite environments
Day 2 - Technical & Tactical Mastery
Morning
Ball mastery, positional play and attacking principles (Pitch Session 1)
Small-sided tactical games focused on speed of play
Afternoon
Tactical analysis classroom:
“Modern Game Trends and Data-Driven Coaching”
Workshop with University Sports Science Department
Evening
Seminar: Player Care & Mental Wellbeing in Football - (Delivered by IDA Player Care Team)
Day 3 - The Professional Environment
Morning
High-intensity defensive organisation and transitional play (Pitch Session 2)
Goalkeeper-specific clinic
Afternoon
Conference: “Opportunities in the Global Football Industry” with guest speakers from the Industry.
Strength & Conditioning workshop with Sheffield’s Human Performance Lab
Tour of The University of Sheffield and guest speakers from the organisation.
Evening
Leadership and Team Cohesion Workshop
Screening & analysis of a professional match
Day 4 - Education & Exposure
Morning
Tactical tournament: players assigned to mixed squads coached by IDA and university staff
Individual performance review sessions
Afternoon
University Faculty sessions: choice of talks by heads of departments from the University.
Campus tour of the University’s award-winning facilities
Evening
Networking Dinner: Meet University representatives and football industry guests
Day 5 - Showcase & Graduation
Morning
Showcase match in front of scouts, university coaches, and invited clubs
Performance evaluation and feedback meetings
Afternoon
Graduation ceremony and presentation of certificates
Farewell lunch & closing address
Evening
Departures
