Access to the programme is gained by enrolment on one of four vocational courses delivered by RuTC. In addition to your academic studies, the programme provides participants with opportunities to train twice a week with AFC Wimbledon UEFA qualified staff. High quality coaching provides students with the platform to develop the technical, tactical, physical and psychological abilities. Based at RuTC and utilising the brand new, state of the art facilities, you will combine your studies with training and playing football on a weekly basis.

The courses that combine with the Football Development Programme:

- Business Level 2 (with AFC Wimbledon Football Development)
- Sport Level 2 (with AFC Wimbledon Football Development) 
- Business Level 3 (with AFC Wimbledon Football Development)
- Sports Coaching and Development Level 3 (with AFC Wimbledon Football Development)

All training sessions and matches take place during college hours meaning that players of all abilities will be able to continue playing with their grassroots or semi-professional clubs whilst accessing the Football Development Programme.

Launching into a journey of skill development and career advancement, the AFC Wimbledon X RuTC Football Development Programme stands as a beacon for aspiring football enthusiasts. Enrichment activities, a cornerstone of this program, take place regularly at The Cherry Red Records Stadium, Plough Lane. These events provide students exclusive access to the rich range of skills and knowledge within the football club.

Beyond the pitch, AFC Wimbledon is deeply committed to elevating students’ employability skills. The programme opens doors to valuable work experiences, immersing students in community and academy projects, as well as AFC Wimbledon matchdays. This hands-on approach not only enriches delivery on the field but also strengthens students' CVs, offering a head start in their chosen career path.

As part of the Development Programme, students are not just spectators; they are active participants in their own success story. Through engaging enrichment activities and meaningful work experiences, they not only hone their football prowess but also cultivate a skill set that extends far beyond the pitch, laying a robust foundation for their future endeavours.

Each course has its own assessment criteria (please see individual courses).

Excellent attendance, punctuality, work completion and professional ethics is the key foundations of the Football Development Programme. RuTC and AFC Wimbledon will regularly monitor and assess these key elements.

Access to the Football Development Programme is for all academic and playing abilities, with players selected for teams based on their suitability. Our focus is to not only to develop your performance as a player, but to also support you achieve academic excellence. We balance training with your academic commitments, ensuring you can meet your potential in both areas, leading to a wider range of progression opportunities.

Your progression will depend on the completion of your course and the Football Development Programmne can help towards:

- Apprenticeships in the sports industry
- University or American scholarships
- Job opportunities at AFC Wimbledon
- Job opportunities within the sport and leisure industry

You will be required to purchase course text books and AFC Wimbledon X RuTC training and match kits which will cost approximately £200 - if you are entitled to Bursary, this money can contribute towards the cost of the kit.