Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that choosing the right football training for your child involves many considerations. Here are answers to the most common questions parents ask about our youth football programme at Baciqi.

We welcome children aged 5 to 16 years across different skill levels. Our programme divides participants into age-appropriate groups: 5-7 years (foundation skills), 8-10 years (development phase), 11-13 years (competitive training), and 14-16 years (advanced techniques). Each group follows a curriculum designed specifically for their physical and cognitive development stage.

Younger children focus on basic coordination, ball control, and enjoying the game, while older participants work on tactical understanding, position-specific skills, and match preparation. This structure ensures every child receives training that matches their abilities and helps them progress at the right pace.

For regular training sessions, children need football boots with moulded studs (not metal), shin guards (mandatory for safety), comfortable athletic clothing suitable for outdoor activity, and a water bottle. During colder months, we recommend layered clothing and a waterproof jacket.

We provide all footballs and training equipment during sessions. For the first trial session, trainers are acceptable if your child doesn't yet own boots. Parents often find it helpful to label all items with their child's name, as equipment can look similar. We maintain a lost property box at our facility in Elmfield Road for any misplaced items.

Our standard programme includes two 90-minute sessions per week, typically scheduled on Tuesday and Thursday evenings or Saturday mornings, depending on the age group. We run sessions year-round with breaks only during major holidays (Christmas and two weeks in August).

For children showing particular interest or talent, we offer an extended programme with three sessions weekly, plus optional weekend match play. The schedule remains consistent throughout the term, allowing families to plan around it. We understand that children have other commitments, so occasional absences are normal - we simply ask parents to inform us in advance when possible.

Absolutely. We welcome complete beginners alongside more experienced players. Our coaches are skilled at working with mixed-ability groups and adapt exercises to suit different skill levels within the same session. Many of our current participants had never played organized football before joining.

New players typically spend their first few weeks mastering basic ball control, understanding simple rules, and building confidence. We pair beginners with supportive teammates and ensure they receive extra attention during drills. The social aspect of training helps newcomers settle in quickly - most children make friends within the first month and look forward to sessions regardless of their initial ability.

All our coaches hold FA Level 2 coaching certificates as a minimum, with several holding Level 3 or UEFA B licenses. Every coach has completed DBS checks, safeguarding training, and first aid certification. Our head coach has 12 years of experience working with youth football in London and previously played semi-professionally.

Beyond qualifications, we select coaches who demonstrate patience, clear communication skills, and genuine enthusiasm for developing young players. Our team includes specialists in goalkeeping, sports psychology, and injury prevention. We maintain a coach-to-player ratio of 1:12 maximum, ensuring each child receives adequate attention during training.

Yes, match play forms an important part of our programme for children aged 8 and above. We participate in local youth leagues across South London, with matches typically held on Sunday mornings. We also organize friendly fixtures with other academies and host internal tournaments each term.

For younger children (5-7 years), we focus on small-sided games during training rather than formal competitions, as this approach better supports their development at that age. Participation in matches is optional - some families prefer training-only involvement, which we fully support. We provide match kit for all competitive fixtures, and parents receive fixture lists at the start of each season.

Our fees are £75 per month for the standard two-session weekly programme, paid termly or monthly via direct debit. This includes all coaching, equipment use, and facility access. The extended three-session programme costs £95 monthly. We offer a sibling discount of 15% for families enrolling multiple children.

New families can book a free trial session before committing. Registration includes a Baciqi training shirt. We understand that circumstances vary, so we offer payment plans for families who need them - please contact us at [email protected] or call +44 20 7922 0184 to discuss options. Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 18:00, and Saturday mornings from 10:00 to 14:00.

Still have questions? We're here to help you make the right decision for your child.

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About Baciqi Football Academy

Building young athletes through structured training and genuine passion for the game

Our Foundation

Baciqi started in 2016 when three UEFA-licensed coaches in South London noticed a gap in quality youth football training. Children aged 5-14 needed more than weekend matches. They required structured skill development, tactical understanding, and physical conditioning appropriate for their age groups.

We established our first training ground near Tooting Common with 18 children. The approach was straightforward: small groups of 8-10 players, age-specific drills, and coaches who understand child development. Within two years, we expanded to three training locations across South London, working with 120 young players.

Young players training at Baciqi Football Academy

What We Do

Our programme runs year-round with sessions three times weekly. Each group trains for 90 minutes, focusing on technical skills, tactical awareness, and age-appropriate physical development. We maintain a 1:10 coach-to-player ratio, ensuring each child receives proper attention and feedback.

Training sessions follow the FA Youth Development curriculum, adapted to individual group needs. Six-year-olds work on basic ball control and spatial awareness. Thirteen-year-olds develop positional play and game reading skills. All groups include match scenarios, but technique comes first.

Football training session with young athletes

Our Approach

We work with children who want to improve their football skills, whether they aim for professional academies or simply enjoy playing. The focus remains on proper technique, understanding the game, and developing athletic abilities safely.

Each player receives quarterly assessments covering technical skills, tactical understanding, physical development, and teamwork. Parents get written feedback and can discuss their child's progress during scheduled consultations. This system helps us adjust training plans and set realistic development goals.

Since 2016, 34 of our players have joined professional academy programmes at clubs including Crystal Palace, Millwall, and AFC Wimbledon. However, most children train with us to become better players while enjoying team sports and staying active.

Training Principles

  • Skill Development Technical training based on FA guidelines, progressing from basic ball control to advanced techniques
  • Age-Appropriate Methods Training intensity and complexity match physical and cognitive development stages
  • Individual Progress Each player develops at their own pace with personalised feedback and adjusted challenges
  • Team Integration Learning to play within a team structure while developing individual capabilities

Current Programme

8 coaches with UEFA B or higher licences

3 training locations across South London

140 active players aged 5-14 years

Year-round sessions including holiday camps

Quarterly assessments for all participants