Aldenham School, founded in 1597, boasts a rich heritage that seamlessly blends tradition with modern innovation. This historic institution, located in the picturesque Hertfordshire countryside only 25 minutes from central London, has long been a beacon of academic excellence and holistic development. Among its many achievements, Aldenham’s football programme stands out as a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering teamwork.
A tradition of football excellence
Aldenham’s football legacy is unparalleled, with the school being at the very dawn of the game. In 1825, Aldenham became the second institution, after Eton College, to document rules for its version of football, and is documented as the oldest football club in history.
This rich tradition has continued, with the school consistently achieving success in national competitions. The U15 team, for instance, has won the U15 ISFA Cup four times in the last six years and is the most decorated Independent school in the competition, solidifying Aldenham’s reputation as a powerhouse in school football.
The school has won 13 Hertfordshire Schools County Cups since 2015 across multiple age groups. Furthermore, Aldenham has secured numerous national titles, including the prestigious U15 ISFA National Cup in 2018, 2019, 2024, and 2025, as well as the highly coveted U15 ESFA Elite Schools Cup in 2023. Most recently, the school has again reached the final of the U12 & U14 ESFA Elite Schools Cup this May. They are familiar with national futsal and league victories, too, such as the U14 ISFA National Futsal title in 2018 and multiple Elgin League Football Cups at U14 and 1st XI level over the years.
This ongoing success is a result of expert coaching and a supportive environment that encourages students to excel both on and off the field. State-of-the-art facilities include nine full-sized football pitches, three nine-a-side and three five-a-side training areas for elite coaching. Aldenham’s extended campus even offers specialised pitches for different age groups — they too receive coaching from highly-experienced staff, some of whom are ex-professionals.
Celebrating recent stars
Aldenham has produced several notable football talents who have gone on to achieve remarkable success in recent years. Myles Lewis-Skelly was recently called up to the England first team in March 2025 — he scored on his debut and continues to shine for Arsenal. Charlie Patino, also started his career at Arsenal, now plays for Deportivo La Coruña in Spain, impressing everyone with his midfield prowess. Xavier Amaechi has moved on from Arsenal to play for FC Magdeburg in Germany, showcasing his skills as a dynamic winger.
Malachi Hardy, a promising defender, was signed by Tottenham Hotspur and has represented England at various youth levels. Will Lankshear, a prolific striker for Tottenham Hotspur, has earned recognition as the Premier League 2 Player of the Season in 2024 and scored on his Europa League debut for Spurs this season.
Most recently, Jordan Yakubu has joined Cambridge United FC as its central defender.
Myles Lewis-Skelly recently scored his first Premier League goal. Source: AFP
Why international boarders choose Aldenham
For international students, Aldenham offers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant community that values both academic and athletic excellence. The school’s football programme provides a platform for students to develop their skills, compete at high levels, and build lifelong friendships. Additionally, Aldenham’s commitment to pastoral care ensures that every student feels supported and valued, making it an ideal choice for boarders from around the world.
Full boarders at Aldenham typically stay at the school six or seven nights a week — an ideal option for students who prefer a fully immersive school experience. Flexi boarders can stay for one to four nights per week, which can be beneficial for those who live nearby or whose families travel frequently. Weekly boarding, on the other hand, involves staying for five nights, typically from Sunday or Monday to Friday.
A holistic approach to education
Beyond football, Aldenham’s holistic education model emphasises the development of the whole child. Students benefit from a balanced curriculum that includes academics, sports, and co-curricular activities, preparing them for success in all areas of life, as opposed to schools with ‘football academies’ which may neglect everything else and still have less success with the football! Aldenham’s comprehensive approach ensures that student graduates are well-rounded individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world.
Sixth Form students at Aldenham can opt to take the Extended Project Qualification, which is highly regarded by universities. Source: Aldenham School
Key Stages 3 and 4 see students covering a wide range of subjects, including English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Modern Foreign Languages, and the Arts. With a solid foundation, they choose their GCSE subjects in Year 9, continuing with these courses until exams at the end of Year 11.
In the Sixth Form, students have the opportunity to specialise in subjects that interest them most. The school offers a range of A-level courses including but not limited to, Economics, Psychology, Computer Science, Drama, and further languages. This stage is critical for university preparation, with additional support through university entrance advice and career guidance.
Join the Aldenham family
Choosing Aldenham means becoming part of a legacy of excellence. International boarders will find a welcoming community, exceptional educational opportunities, and a chance to be part of a storied football tradition. Discover the difference at Aldenham School, where heritage and success go hand in hand.
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