Skillz UK

Football classes for children aged 2 to 11 in Croydon and Sutton

Skillz UK is a British company founded in 2012 by Ashley Thomas that organises indoor football classes for children aged 2 to 11 in the Croydon and Sutton areas. The company presents itself as a child-centred programme, with the aim that participants develop their love of football without the pressure of being the best. It currently has 35 weekly classes across 8 venues, and serves around 550 members per week.

Age-specific programmes

The offering is structured into four programmes according to the age and level of the children:

• Skillz 4 Tots (2-4 years): introductory football classes for toddlers and preschoolers, with creative themes and fun activities. They are held in Purley, South Croydon and Carshalton.
• Superstar Football (4-7 years, School Years R-2): high-energy sessions that combine fun and learning of technical fundamentals such as dribbling, passing and shooting. Available in Purley, South Croydon, Carshalton and Wallington.
• Football Academy (7-11 years, School Years 3-6): more advanced training that includes decision-making, technique and understanding of the game. It is held in Purley, South Croydon, Carshalton and Wallington.
• Girls Only Football (5-11 years): exclusive sessions for girls looking to develop skills and confidence in a focused environment. They take place in Purley.

Methodology and team

The programme is led by Ashley Thomas, who holds a UEFA B licence obtained at the age of 20 and has worked in academies of professional clubs such as Fulham FC and Chelsea FC. The coaching team is made up of professionals qualified by UEFA and the FA. The company also runs a grassroots club called SZ United FC, with more than 160 players, and a sister brand of holiday camps, Superstar Campz.

Tasters and prices

Skillz UK offers a two-week taster for £16, which includes two sessions with no commitment. If the child continues, the monthly fee ranges from £42 to £48 depending on the venue and programme. There is no joining fee or cancellation fee, and four weeks' notice is required to cancel. If the taster is not enjoyed, the £16 is refunded. In addition, the company offers three weeks of taster sessions with a medal, e-book and T-shirt upon registration.

Birthday parties and other services

The company organises 2-hour football and sports birthday parties for children aged 5 to 11, with a service that includes venue, coaches, equipment and entertainment. It also runs school clubs at several schools: Quest Primary School, Regina Coeli Catholic Primary School, Christchurch Primary School and Margaret Roper Primary School. Members enjoy 10% discounts on birthday parties, camps and other services, as well as internal tournaments every term.

Awards

Skillz UK has received the Children's Sports Activity Of The Year award at the London & South East England Prestige Awards and a Highly Commended mention at the National Whats On 4 Kids Awards. The company has five-star reviews and has been praised by figures such as Carlton Cole, former West Ham United player, and Carina Lapore, winner of The Apprentice 2020.