Moorland Football Academy
Football Talent Scouting Opportunities
Bursaries available
Matt Derbyshire will be in...
Bermuda • 1st to 5th April
Cyprus • 28th April to 3rd May
At Moorland Football Academy we take immense pride in fostering the growth and development of young football enthusiasts.
We have an incredible track record of football achievements; winning national championships and paving the way for professional football careers.
In an exciting new chapter, Matt Derbyshire will visit Bermuda, where he will meet with students and parents at several football academies. As part of this initiative, Matt will scout exceptional young talent and offer them the opportunity to join Moorland School, where they can further their skills and academic potential within our football academy.
Bermuda
Bermuda • 1st to 5th April
Introducing Tyler, Aiden, and Benji – Moorland Academy’s Talented Players from Bermuda
Moorland Academy is proud to introduce three exceptional young footballers from Bermuda: Tyler, Aiden, and Benji. These dedicated athletes have embraced the challenges of training in the UK, showcasing their skills and determination as they strive for a future in professional football.
Tyler: A National Team Talent Tyler has been a part of Moorland Academy for three years and boards at the school from Monday to Friday. His commitment and talent have earned him a place in the Bermudian U17 National Team, where he recently competed in the World Cup Qualifiers. His experience on the international stage is a testament to his dedication and the high-level training he receives at Moorland. Tyler is also a passionate Manchester United supporter.
Aiden: A Promising Goalkeeper At just 14 years old, Aiden has been with Moorland for a year and is now transitioning into boarding life. Playing as a goalkeeper, Aiden is honing his skills under the guidance of Moorland’s specialised goalkeeper coach. His enthusiasm and drive make him a promising talent between the posts. Aiden is a dedicated Liverpool supporter.
Benji: A Rising Star on the Wing Also 14, Benji joined Moorland two years ago and has already made a name for himself as an exciting winger. His speed, agility, and technical ability make him a key player to watch. With a strong passion for the game, Benji continues to develop into a formidable force on the field. Like Aiden, Benji is also a Liverpool supporter.
During our recent chat, the boys shared their love for football and reflected on the intensity and seriousness of training at Moorland compared to their school experiences in Bermuda. They noted significant improvements in their skill levels and stamina, all with the ultimate goal of joining a professional academy upon completing their education.
The reason they chose to move to Moorland was not only for an improved education but also to pursue their love for football, become better players, and take advantage of the opportunities that Moorland Football Academy has to offer. Moorland has won numerous national championships and has produced many professional players over the years, making it the ideal place for aspiring footballers to develop their talents.
Adapting to life in the UK has been a smooth transition for the trio. They have embraced the Lancashire weather and built strong friendships within the Moorland family. Their journey is a testament to their resilience and ambition, and we are excited to see what the future holds for these talented young athletes.
Stay tuned for more updates on their progress and achievements at Moorland Academy!
Our Academy Director
Mr Matthew Derbyshire
We are thrilled to introduce ex-Premier League footballer and coach Matthew Derbyshire as the new Director of Moorland Football Academy. With a rich career spanning renowned English and International clubs, Matthew brings with him an invaluable wealth of experience and a deep passion for football development.
Matthew has not only played at the highest levels but also gained extensive coaching experience at Blackburn and Bradford, equipping him with the skills to shape the next generation of football talent. As such, Matthew is currently completing his UEFA A Coaching License.
Matthew’s goals for the academy align with Moorland’s values: he wants each student to find joy and purpose in the game. He believes in creating a professional environment that nurtures potential and offers pathways into various tiers of football. Matthew is already making strides into creating links with clubs in all tiers of football and we will keep you all updated on these developments.
Matthew is not new to Moorland, he has been a Moorland parent for many years. His eldest son is now progressing a football career at Burnley and he has a further 2 children in the school. He believes that a strong educational foundation is essential for any career, within or beyond sports.
Among Matthew’s first priorities is enhancing our outdoor pitch, ensuring that students have access to high-quality grass surfaces for training and matches. “The children should be training and playing on grass as much as possible,” he says. “I’m a huge advocate of outdoor play, and with the right groundwork, we can optimise this space.”
Matthew is excited to bring his ideas and enthusiasm to Moorland. His holistic approach to student well-being – emphasising fitness, nutrition, and collaboration with academic staff – is designed to help students reach their full potential, both on and off the pitch.
Strive • Skill • Succeed
Football Prospectus
A safe Haven with Stunning Surroundings
Moorland School Boarding Facilities
Being situated in Clitheroe, we are right in the heart of an area recognised for its outstanding natural beauty. We are situated right next to the River Ribble, the town centre is home to the famous Clitheroe Castle, and we are a short drive away from both the stunning Forest of Bowland and the well-known Pendle Hill sites. Surrounded by such areas of beauty, you can easily see why our location is an important part of the the identity of Moorland School.
The local town is bustling with activity housing a small population of around 15,000 and the home to thriving businesses. We are also within a few minutes walk of the local train station, allowing easy access to any of the Northern cities and airports.
On campus all our boarding students have access to private dressing and bathroom spaces, common areas divided via age groups as well as their own living spaces. Our Football Academy students have regular non-timetabled access to the Sports Hall for any additional practice time.
Whilst staying at Moorland, your students will enjoy freshly prepared meals made with locally sourced produce. We cater for any food allergy, have a vegetarian/vegan option daily and also have a selection of salads, cold meats and jacket potatoes as an alternative to our daily hot option (lunch/dinner).
Strive • Skill • Succeed
Honours & Accolades
Developing talented players who seamlessly transition into successful professional football careers.
- National Champions: 2014, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2023, 2024.
- Lancashire Champions: 2014, 2017, 2018, 2021.
Achieve the Dream
Meet the Professionals
Many of our students succeed in reaching their dream of a professional playing career, with our graduates representing teams throughout the leagues. Students have access to many unrivalled opportunities, such as working with renowned coaches who hold UEFA A&B licences as well as our growing portfolio of guest coaches which in 2021 included Manchester City legend, Yaya Touré. Our students are monitored weekly by the scouting networks of Category 1 Clubs such as Blackburn Rovers and Manchester City FC, making Moorland the perfect platform for those looking to secure professional contracts.
One specific achievement and proud moment for Moorland is the recent £22m transfer of Adam Wharton from Blackburn Rovers to Crystal Palace. We are absolutely delighted for Adam and his family. Witnessing the dedication and hard work that our pupils and family give in order to reach the top is truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing Adam wearing the national shirt in the coming years – no pressure Adam!
How to Find Us
Visit Us By Car, Bus or Train
Moorland School is situated in the market town of Clitheroe, providing transport links nearby Blackburn, Preston, and Manchester.
With a bus station, and train station only 5 minutes away, the school is easily accessible whether travelling by car, bus, or train.
To book transport by train, please find a guide from Trainline here.
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Moorland School
Ribblesdale Ave,
Clitheroe, BB7 2JA - +44 (0) 1200 423 833
