18+ | Gap Year
Make YourGap Year Count.
Spend your gap year developing as a footballer, gaining experience and preparing for the next stage of your education, career or football journey.
The programme in brief.
A gap year shouldn't mean standing still.
Many players finish school without knowing exactly what comes next. A gap year can easily become a year away from football, away from development and away from structure.
Touchline offers a different option: a structured environment where players continue football development, train and compete, experience a new environment, develop independence and prepare for what's next.
Time away from education does not have to mean time away from development.
A year built around development.
Every component is designed to keep the player progressing — on the pitch, as a person and towards their next step.
Football
Structured training and professional coaching throughout the year.
Competition
Fixtures, tournaments and competitive football opportunities.
Development
Individual player development with feedback and progression tracking.
Experience
International and residential experience where applicable — a new environment and perspective.
Education
Any education, qualifications or learning components confirmed for the programme.
Progression
Preparation and support for the next stage — university, football or career.
Three reasons players choose Gap Year Football.
"I want another year of football."
You're not ready to step away from structured development and want a year that keeps football central.
"I'm not ready to choose university yet."
You need time and experience before committing to a long-term route — and you want that year to mean something.
"I want to develop before my next step."
You want to arrive at university, a career or your next football opportunity sharper, fitter and more prepared.
Progress may not be suitable for players who are not committed to structured development or who are looking for an unstructured break. Contact our team to discuss whether it's the right fit.
Football at the centre.
Players train with experienced coaches, compete regularly and receive individual development support throughout the year.
Coaching
Structured training delivered to a professional standard.
Competition
Regular fixtures and competitive football.
Player Development
Individual plans, feedback and progression tracking.
Performance Support
Analysis and development tools where applicable.
Team Environment
A structured group environment that pushes players.
New Environments
Exposure to different football cultures and approaches.
One year. Multiple possible destinations.
Progress is designed to open doors — not to promise a specific outcome. These are the routes players can pursue after the programme.
A structured year, not a year off.
Parents want a gap year to have purpose. Progress provides structure, support and accountability — so the year counts.
Structure & accountability
Accommodation & welfare
Communication
Support network
Gap Year Football — frequently asked questions
Players who have finished school or college and want to spend a structured year continuing their football development. The programme is suitable for UK and international players where applicable.
Not sure which pathway is right for you?
Compare all Touchline pathways
Make your next year count.
Apply for Progress and spend your gap year developing as a player and preparing for what comes next.