College Academy
Our College Academy offers 16-18 year olds the opportunity to combine studies with a personalised cricket development programme at The Cooper Associates County Ground.
What is the Academy?
The Somerset Cricket Board Further Education Academy offers 16-18 year olds the opportunity to combine studies with a personalised cricket development programme at The Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton.
Players are provided with a structured programme of practical coaching, sports science support and fitness alongside an academic education at the highly regarded Richard Huish College. Former Somerset CCC player Keith Parsons leads a team of high level, experienced coaches.
What do players receive?
- Five hours of coaching per week (this includes two hours of 2:1 coaching and three hours of group coaching).
- Winter indoor and summer outdoor fixtures.
- A personalised strength and conditioning programme.
- Gym membership for the college gym.
- A place on the ECB Foundation 1 coaching course.
- Richard Huish sports clothing
When does it run?
The programme runs from October to July with outdoor fixtures during the summer term and indoor fixtures during the winter/spring terms.
Testimonials
“My son has loved both the cricket programme and the college side. Thank you for running such as excellent programme”. Parent of a current academy player.“The academy has made a huge difference to my game. Being able to play as well as study is brilliant”. Current academy player.

Keith Parsons College Academy Head Coach