We are fortunate to benefit from outstanding facilities, including the Turf and Derby Field. On Saturdays, we regularly field seven teams, along with development sides, during Michaelmas Term and 14–16 teams during Lent Term. Our fixture list includes schools from both the independent and maintained sectors, providing our players with challenging and enjoyable matches. As members of the Independent Schools Football Association (ISFA), we enter boys’ teams in both the U18 and U15 Cup competitions, competing against some of the top schools in the country. In recent years, several of our players have represented ISFA at U18 level, and we aim to offer the same opportunities for girls in the near future.
Our coaching programme benefits all players—boys and girls alike. It emphasises both technical and tactical development while fostering the mental resilience required for competitive play. Most importantly, the programme ensures that every pupil who wishes to play has the chance to represent the College in weekend block fixtures, enjoying participation in the nation’s most beloved sport.
With nearly a decade of coaching experience and a lifelong passion for the game, Oli Pritchard helps lead the football programme at Wellington College with energy, commitment, and a deep understanding of player development. A former semi-professional footballer, he has been immersed in the sport from a young age and brings a wealth of experience both on and off the pitch. Before joining Wellington, Oli worked as a coach at Reading Football Club, where he developed strong ties that continue to influence his coaching philosophy. He is a hardworking and dedicated coach who believes in nurturing the whole individual, not just the athlete. His approach centres on helping students grow as players and as people, fostering values such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience alongside footballing excellence.
We are also fortunate to be supported by Reading FC, who provide us with coaches each week for our performance squads. Their involvement offers our players access to high-level coaching expertise, further enhancing the development of those competing at a more advanced level.
We tour every 2-3 years to places like PSV Eindhoven & Bayern Munich. These allow players to experience football in different cultures, face new levels of competition, and immerse themselves in a professional training environment. These tours not only enhance the technical and tactical aspects of players’ development but also help foster team spirit, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the game at a global level.
The football offering at the College continues to grow and improve year on year. An increase in pupil participation has enabled us to enhance the provision for both boys and girls, adding more teams, improving coaching standards, and expanding our fixture list. This steady rise in numbers reflects the growing passion for the sport within the College, allowing us to provide even more opportunities for pupils to engage with football, whether they are playing for enjoyment or aiming to compete at a higher level.
ISFA
representation for boys and girls
250
students playing in Lent term
Coaches
Oli Pritchard
Head of Football Development
With nearly a decade of coaching experience and a lifelong passion for the game, Oli Pritchard helps lead the football programme at Wellington College with energy, commitment, and a deep understanding of player development. A former semi-professional footballer, he has been immersed in the sport from a young age and brings a wealth of experience both on and off the pitch. Before joining Wellington, Oli worked as a coach at Reading Football Club, where he developed strong ties that continue to influence his coaching philosophy. He is a hardworking and dedicated coach who believes in nurturing the whole individual, not just the athlete. His approach centres on helping students grow as players and as people, fostering values such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience alongside footballing excellence.
Will O’Brien
Head of Football
Bio – As Head of Football, my primary responsibility is to lead a programme that not only elevates the standard of play but also contributes significantly to the personal and athletic development of our students. The focus of my role is to ensure that each student grows both on and off the pitch. Working alongside a dedicated coaching team, we structure training sessions that enhance technical skills and tactical understanding while fostering confidence, resilience, and leadership. These traits, developed through football, are invaluable to our students, preparing them for challenges both within and beyond the sport.
Football at Wellington is more than just a game; it serves as a foundation for personal development that prepares students for life beyond the school. We place a strong emphasis on teamwork, discipline, and accountability, recognising these as key values that will be vital in their future careers and personal lives. By setting high expectations for behaviour and performance, we cultivate responsibility and self-discipline, equipping students with the tools they will need in any professional or academic setting. My role extends beyond the technical aspects of football to focus on the overall well-being of each student. We monitor their physical and mental health closely to ensure a balanced approach to training, emphasising long-term development over immediate results. Whether students aim to pursue football professionally or enjoy it recreationally, our programme is designed to support their personal goals while instilling the skills and mindset necessary for success after Wellington.
Looking to the future, I am committed to providing opportunities that will prepare students for life beyond school. Through partnerships with professional clubs, participation in competitive tournaments, and fostering connections within the football community, we offer pathways for those seeking a career in football. At the same time, we ensure that all students benefit from the values the sport instils.
Ultimately, as Head of Football, my role is to create an environment where students can excel both as athletes and as individuals. By equipping them with the skills, discipline, and mindset needed for success, we are preparing them to thrive in any endeavour they pursue.
Email – wao@wellingtoncollege.org.uk
Beyond Wellington
Fabeinne Bartholdson
Sweden U17 Euros 2024
Hugo South
Ascot United (semi professional team playing at Step 3/7th tier of English football)
What you need
Essential Kit:
- Training top
- Training shorts
- Socks
- Shin Pads
- Boots
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