CO-FOUNDER & SENIOR ADVISOR
Chris Woodburn
Chris Woodburn is Co-Founder of Prestige Football Schools and one of the UK's most experienced football boarding school advisors. A British Council-certified counsellor and BBSN-approved agent, Chris has spent 15 years helping international families navigate the UK's football boarding school landscape.
He holds a BA Honours Degree in Sports Coaching & Management from the University of Central Lancashire — where he was the youngest-ever captain of the University football team — and gained coaching experience at professional clubs including Chicago Fire in the USA.
Chris currently scouts at youth level for Sheffield United FC and at first-team level for Halifax Town FC, giving him a unique dual perspective across football and education.
CREDENTIALS & QUALIFICATIONS
Trusted, Certified & Experienced
- BBSN Accredited Agent — Certified by the British Boarding Schools Network as a trusted and vetted placement agent.
- British Council Certified — Holds official British Council certification for international student counselling.
- Scout · Sheffield United FC — Active youth scout at Sheffield United FC in the English Football League.
- Scout · Halifax Town FC — First-team scout at Halifax Town FC, keeping him at the sharp end of football recruitment.
- BA (Hons) Sports Coaching & Management — University of Central Lancashire, youngest-ever captain of the University football team.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
What Chris Can Help You With
Football Boarding School Selection
Expert guidance on the UK's top football boarding schools — admissions, trials, programme quality and the right fit for your son.
UK Student Route Visa
Full end-to-end guidance on the UK Student Route visa process for international players aged 11–17.
International Student Placement
Placing students from every continent with experience across multiple cultures, immigration frameworks and school systems.
Scholarships & Bursaries
Identifying and negotiating scholarship and bursary opportunities at the UK's leading football boarding schools.
School Visits & Programme Assessment
Regular in-person school visits to independently assess coaching quality, facilities and the overall environment.
BBSN Agent Standards
In-depth knowledge of BBSN accreditation and what it means for families choosing a reliable, regulated agent.
FROM THE PRESTIGE BLOG
Articles by Chris Woodburn
READY TO START YOUR JOURNEY?
Get Expert Guidance From Chris
With 15 years of experience placing international students at the UK's best football boarding schools, Chris is ready to find the right environment for your son.