St Mary’s University is pleased to announce that the Chelsea FC Foundation Coaching and Development Degree will include the UEFA C Diploma as part of the programme.
The UEFA C is the first formal qualification within the UEFA coach education pathway and is internationally recognised as the industry‑standard coaching award. It focuses on developing core coaching competencies, including planning, delivering and reviewing safe, inclusive and effective coaching sessions in line with modern coaching principles.
By embedding the UEFA C Diploma within the degree, students at St Mary’s are able to achieve a recognised professional coaching qualification alongside their academic studies. This strengthens the link between theory and practice, enhances employability, and provides a clear progression route for students aspiring to work within grassroots, community, or professional academy environments.
To secure a place on the UEFA C Diploma, students must complete Introduction to Coaching Football, Safeguarding Children in Football, and Introduction to First Aid in Football by September of their second year of study.
Tom Sims (Project Coordinator on the Chelsea FC Foundation Degree Programme) said, “We’re excited to be able to embed the UEFA C Diploma within the degree. It’s an industry‑standard qualification and something that sits at the heart of coach development across the game.
“For our students, this means they’re not just learning the theory in the classroom, but actively applying it in real coaching environments, gaining confidence and experience along the way. It reflects our commitment to developing knowledgeable, inclusive and high‑quality coaches, and better preparing our students for the roles and pathways they want to progress into within football.”
Alex Cattini (Course Lead and Lecturer in Football Coaching & Development) added, “We are delighted to now be able to offer this to our students through our new collaboration with England Football Learning. We hope that this additional qualification will further support leaners on their coaching journeys and beyond study with us at St Marys University.”