Brisbane’s St James College has become the first school in the city to host a Liverpool FC International Academy, giving local students direct access to the same world-class football methods used by one of England’s most successful clubs.
A Community-First Partnership
The program officially launched on 16 September 2025 at the Spring Hill campus. The collaboration aims to give young people more than athletic training.
It blends Liverpool’s football philosophy with St James College’s values of inclusivity, justice and community. Teachers trained under Liverpool’s global academy program will lead sessions that focus on discipline, teamwork and resilience.
The school plans to make the academy available to students from Years 5 to 12, with weekly training, classroom learning and community clinics forming part of the structure.
Shaping Students On And Off The Field
Principal Andrée Rice said the partnership reflects shared goals between the club and the school, both centred on giving young people opportunities to grow. She said Liverpool’s four values of ambition, commitment, dignity and unity align closely with St James College’s approach to developing character through education.
The program is expected to create long-term benefits, helping students apply lessons in leadership, focus and cooperation across all areas of life, not only sport.
Global Standards, Local Impact
Rob Davey, general manager of Liverpool FC International Academy Australia, said the initiative represents the club’s first direct presence in Brisbane. He noted that Liverpool’s youth training model is designed to develop confident and responsible young people through football.
The program’s launch brought together students, teachers, families, and members of the Official Liverpool Supporters Club Queensland, marking the start of a new era for school sport in the city.
Pathways For Young Players
The academy gives Brisbane students a pathway to professional development while remaining part of a local school community. While some may pursue football careers, the program also builds transferable skills useful across other sports and studies.
St James College’s involvement adds to a growing network of Queensland schools linked with major Premier League clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City, highlighting a wider interest in global partnerships that enrich student learning.
Published 6-October-2025
