For these young players, the challenge is about much more than developing as footballers. Balancing the demands of Academy football with the discipline, focus and commitment required in education represents a significant achievement, and these GCSE results provide plenty to celebrate.
Across the group, 33% of scholars achieved at least one grade 7, 8 or 9, while one in three also achieved multiple grades at 8 or 9. The results included a number of outstanding individual performances.
Among the standout results, Sebastian Bonsu-Amako recorded a series of 9s and 8s, while Hugo Bull also achieved grades at the highest end, including several 9s and 8s. Lucca Benetton produced 9s, 8s and 7s, while Dylan Monk also recorded top grades in Maths, Business, Geography and PE.
Their hard work in school has been rewarded, with the Academy continuing to invest in and support their education. All four boys are now on the A-Level programme, where they will study an array of subjects including Business, Economics, Spanish, History and Psychology alongside their apprenticeship as footballers.
Balancing training, matches, travel and the physical and mental demands of youth football development, these young players have continued to apply themselves in school and through the Academy’s outstanding Hybrid Training Model.
Head of Academy Education Andy Griffiths said: “Education remains a core part of the Crystal Palace Academy programme. While many scholars aspire to a career in professional football, we are equally committed to preparing them for life beyond the game.
“The GCSE results reflect the scholars’ attitude, determination and commitment to their studies, both at school and through our Hybrid programme.
“With one in three new scholars achieving grades in the 7–9 range, and one in three recording multiple 8s or 9s, the results highlight the academic ambition within the group. Development does not stop on the training pitch – it continues in every part of the Academy programme.”
The Club congratulates all of its newly signed scholars who have completed their GCSEs – Kwasi Baah, Anthony Barrett, Lucca Benetton, Sebastian Bonsu-Amako, Hugo Bull, Jamar Lee, Alfie Mulvenna, Jay Emmanuel Jordan, Dylan Monk, Kayden Moses, Malik Tejan and Toby Williams – as well as all the Academy staff who have supported them throughout their studies.
An extended thanks also goes to the Club’s education partner, Oasis Academy, and its teaching staff, who deliver outstanding GCSE provision through the Hybrid Training Model.