Bede's Senior School Kicks Off New Academic Year with Football Success

Posted on 11th Sep 2025 in School News, Sport

Bede's Senior School is proud to announce a triumphant start to the academic year, marked by exceptional achievements from its current and former football pupils.

Upper Fifth pupil, Fraser Widdop, has been selected to join the England U17 squad for an international tournament in Germany. Fraser will represent England on the international stage in a series of matches starting in September. This call-up is a testament to his dedication and skill and the school community wishes him the very best of luck.

Bede's is also celebrating the recent professional contract signing of former pupil Kobe Agbude with Queens Park Rangers (QPR). Kobe, who recently left the school has joined the club's Development Squad following a successful trial period. His hard work and determination have paid off, providing a fantastic example for all aspiring Bede's footballers.

In addition, two recent alumni have secured professional scholarships with prestigious clubs. Liam Doyle has signed as a scholar with Brighton & Hove Albion and Harvey Boddy has signed with QPR. These achievements are a significant step in their careers and Bede's is incredibly proud of their progress.

Another former pupil, Oli Hobden, recently made his debut for Charlton Athletic FC. Oli, who signed a professional contract with the club in 2023, made his first-team debut in a recent EFL Cup match against Cambridge United. Another fantastic achievement and a significant milestone.

"We are immensely proud of Fraser, Kobe, Liam, Harvey and Oli," says David Caryer, Bede's Director of Sport. "Their achievements are a result of their talent, efforts and determination. Their success reflects the strength of our football programme and the pathways we are creating for our pupils to progress to the highest levels of sport."

The school community looks forward to following these footballers progress as they embark on the next phases of their careers.

Bede's football programme aims to get the best out of every individual and provide every player with a future football pathway once they leave Bede's. Many Bede's pupils have gone onto professional contracts including Solly March (Brighton & Hove Albion), Lola Brown (Chelsea and England WU17) and James Norwood (Ipswich Town and England U21). Learn more about the football programme, view the school facilities and speak to the football coaches at Bede's Senior School Open Morning on Saturday 27 September. Sign up at www.bedes.org/open-morning.