Specialist On-Site Goalkeeper Coaching for Independent & Senior Schools
Go beyond repetitive shooting drills. Led by former Charterhouse School Goalkeeper Coach Matthew Wellfare, we deliver structured, tactical goalkeeper development directly on your school pitches—elevating your 1st XI through to junior development squads.
Matthew Wellfare
Founder & Head Goalkeeper Specialist
"I know for a fact that I wouldn't have performed as well as I have if it wasn't for you, and I regard this season as my best at Charterhouse—not just based off match day performances, but also actually enjoying every moment of training and the work behind the scenes."
- Delivered on your school pitches across weekdays & weekends
- Bespoke scheduling agreed on a one-by-one basis
- Zero additional admin burden for your Director of Sport
Elevating Your School’s Goalkeepers Beyond Standard Shooting Drills
Most independent school football departments have strong outfield coaches, yet school goalkeepers are frequently left without dedicated positional, tactical, and technical instruction during school training sessions.
On-Site Timetable Integration
We travel directly to your school campus across weekdays or weekends. Every arrangement is tailored individually so your keepers train on their home surfaces at a schedule that works for both your department and our coaching team.
Tactical Match Readiness
Rather than standing in a line waiting for random shots, your school’s goalkeepers learn how to command their 18-yard box, organize set-pieces, sweep behind high defensive lines, and initiate attacks.
Whole-School Pathway
Maximize each coaching visit by structuring consecutive sessions—from your 1st XI and Senior squads right down to promising U12–U15 junior goalkeepers.
What Separates a Competent School Keeper from a Match-Winner
While basic shot-stopping and handling are considered the baseline requirement (95% standard expectation), scouting and match analysis show that Tactical IQ, Positional Vision, and Mental Resilience provide a +70% performance advantage in competitive fixtures and academy trials.
The entry ticket for any senior school or academy keeper.
The decisive edge in ISFA, ESFA, and independent school cup ties.
Building the Thinking Goalkeeper
For over two decades, Matthew Wellfare has dedicated his career to developing goalkeepers from grassroots through to senior independent school 1st XIs and professional academy pathways.
Our philosophy is built on a clear principle: create intelligent, proactive goalkeepers who command their box and influence the game. We don't just train reflexes—we build football minds capable of reading play before the threat develops.
Simulating live-game scenarios rather than isolated drills. We analyze positioning both inside and outside the 18-yard area.
- Reading the Game & Anticipation
- Command of the 18-Yard Box & Crosses
- Sweeper-Keeper Space Management
Developing the composure, vocal presence, and leadership essential for high-pressure school fixtures and cup runs.
- Unshakeable Match-Day Confidence
- Managing Mistakes & Resetting Focus
- Organizing Defensive Units & Set-Pieces
Refining handling cleanliness, footwork efficiency, diving technique, and rapid recovery mechanics.
- Correcting Habits Quickly & Effectively
- Explosive Footwork & Set Positions
- 1v1 Smothering & Angle Closure
Modern school sides play out from the back. We train keepers to be the first point of attack with composure on the ball.
- Vision to See the Next Pass
- Driven Kicking, Clip Passes & Throws
- Playing Under Opposition High Press
Flexible Weekday & Weekend Delivery
Every school operates on a different timetable. Rather than locking you into rigid slots, we discuss and agree days and schedules on a one-by-one basis across weekdays and weekends.
Senior & 1st XI Specialist
Dedicated specialist coaching integrated into your sports blocks for Senior and 1st/2nd XI keepers to prepare for competitive fixtures.
Junior & Prep Clinics
Structured sessions for U11–U15 goalkeepers during PE rotations or games sessions to instil proper biomechanical technique early.
Squad & Defensive Units
Training blocks working first with the goalkeepers on technical detail before integrating into team set-piece and defensive phase play.
Pre-Term & Cup Intensives
Focused pre-season tune-ups or pre-cup tie preparation blocks to sharpen handling, high-ball dominance, and penalty preparation.
What School Goalkeepers & Parents Say
From Charterhouse School's 1st Team through to players progressing into the Chelsea Player Performance Centre.
"I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for all your help this season, I know for a fact that I wouldn't have performed as well as I have if it wasn't for you, and I regard this season as my best at Charterhouse not just based off match day performances, but also actually enjoying every moment of training and the work behind the scenes and that's mostly thanks to you. Although I'm not sure yet if I'm staying in the UK or will be continuing my education in the US, I'll keep in touch and I'll keep you updated."
"Matt has been training my 10 year old son in goalkeeping for about 9 months. Matt not only focuses on the technical skills but also building confidence and mentality. He has a great way of talking to kids and explaining things clearly. My son has come on in leaps and bounds, and has since gone on to the Chelsea Player Performance Centre for goalkeeping. We highly recommend Matt!"
"Matt worked with my daughter for a block of 5 sessions over the summer training break. He quickly identified and corrected bad habits and errors. 'Within the first 10 minutes he understood me as a goalkeeper' was a direct quote from her. His training has made a noticeable difference, really pushing and challenging her. It has built confidence and left her ready for the season ahead."
"Over the past few months, I've really enjoyed training with Matt. Every session has been well organised, challenging, and tailored to help me improve as a goalkeeper. Matt explains everything clearly and always gives useful feedback, which has helped me develop my technique, decision-making, and confidence on the pitch. The sessions are professional, enjoyable, and always push me to improve."
Professional Standards & Safeguarding
We operate in full alignment with independent and senior school visitor protocols, ensuring complete peace of mind for your Bursar, Safeguarding Lead, and Director of Sport:
Enhanced DBS Checked
Cleared for regulated activity within school environments.
FA Safeguarding Certified
Extensive youth leadership including Worthing FC youth teams.
Public Liability Insurance
Full professional indemnity & public liability cover.
School Etiquette & Standards
Proven Charterhouse School coaching pedigree.
West Sussex, Surrey & Surrounding Borders
Available for weekday and weekend school visits across West Sussex, Surrey, and accessible surrounding towns including:
Arrange Specialist Goalkeeper Coaching for Your School
Every school's requirement is discussed on an individual basis to find a weekday or weekend schedule that works for both your sports department and Matthew Wellfare.