James, thanks for taking the time to talk to us, tell us more about the u5 and u6 Fledglings programme?
The Fledglings programme is often a child’s very first opportunity to learn and fall in love with the game of football. It’s run by a group of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about giving every child the chance to learn, play, and enjoy the sport. Unlike many other camps or classes, Fledglings is a natural feeder into a real club and team pathway, with children progressing to play competitive matches against other local teams from next year. We’ve built a truly special community of children and parents, and it’s been wonderful to see that community grow across all schools and backgrounds within the borough.
The programme is getting extremely popular, what was your objective when you first launched and did you imagine it would become as popular as it has?
What began as a way for my own child to develop the same love of football that I had as a kid quickly grew into something much bigger. Thanks to the incredible work of our dedicated coaches (Dan, Tom, Sofia, Sarah, Linda & Carl), word spread about how inclusive and enjoyable these sessions really are. Many parents understandably worry that it will all be about their child being an expert or completely obsessed from day one – but it isn’t. It’s about building confidence, enjoyment, and skills week by week. All children need to do is turn up, have a go, and enjoy themselves.
What are the kinds of activities/exercises/drills you undertake and what is the goal (excuse the pun) at these ages?
We’re incredibly fortunate that our coaches are fully supported by Windsor & Eton FC, with FA qualifications funded as part of their role at the club. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that, at this age, technical football ability simply isn’t the most important thing. We do a mix of structured and unstructured games from movement, special awareness, passing, dribbling shooting and the most enjoyed part matches!
Children all learn and develop at different speeds, and we’re very mindful of that. We thoughtfully stream sessions to ensure every child is encouraged to grow and learn at their own pace, while making sure no one is put in a situation where they’re overwhelmed by others with more experience.
Outside of the pure technical skills, what are some of the other skills you see this programme helping develop? (I’m thinking things like communication, team work etc!)
For us, the priority is simple: making sure children want to come back every week – enjoying themselves, learning, and developing over time. Along the way, they naturally build a wide range of important skills, from communication (asking for the ball and sharing it with others), to discipline (understanding rules, avoiding fouls, and even something as simple as being on time), as well as competitiveness and resilience.
Just as importantly, they develop teamwork, improve their fitness, and learn small but valuable habits – like helping each other out and taking responsibility for tasks such as collecting equipment. It’s about building positive attitudes and good habits for life, not just creating better footballers.
The club is in the process of applying for planning permission for the a 3G pitch, why is the 3G so important and what to you are the benefits this would bring to the local community?
A 3G pitch would make a huge difference across so many of our age groups. Currently, we rely on hiring expensive facilities from leisure centres and schools, often without the certainty of regular or consistent access. Having our own dedicated space would provide the stability and continuity that grassroots football really needs.
Just as importantly, it would allow children to truly feel that they are playing at the home of Windsor & Eton FC. That sense of belonging is incredibly powerful. We’re already fortunate that some children get the chance to be mascots, and a permanent home pitch would build on this even further – helping them feel part of something much bigger than a football team, but a genuine, lasting community.
There appears to be a growing number of girls participating, are you seeing a real growth in girls’ football in the town?
We feel incredibly fortunate to have welcomed several girls into the programme, and they’ve become valued and integral members of our teams. The success of the Lionesses and the continued growth of the WSL have shown just how clearly football is a game for everyone—not just boys. It’s important to us that the sport is open, inclusive, and welcoming, and we would absolutely love to see even more girls come along and get involved.
How can parents learn more?
Email us at fledglings@wefc.co.uk
