The short answer
Chesterfield (League Two) runs a Category 4 academy, which means academy squads at Under-17 to Under-21 only. It doesn't register younger players, and there is no travel limit at those ages. The academy is based at Chesterfield.
| League 2026/27 | League Two |
| Academy | Category 4 |
| Academy age groups | Under-17 to Under-21 |
| Academy base | Chesterfield |
How far Chesterfield can recruit from
Under Rule 262 of the Youth Development Rules, a Category 4 academy can only register players who live within these travel times of its main training venue:
| Age group | Travel limit |
|---|---|
| Under-9 to Under-11 | No academy squads |
| Under-12 to Under-16 | No academy squads |
| Under-17 to Under-21 | No limit |
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Joining Chesterfield at 16
Because a Category 4 academy has no younger squads, Chesterfield recruits players who were released by other academies or were never registered with one. It can offer a scholarship to someone who isn't an academy player, or to an Under-16 whose academy has told them they won't get a scholarship (Rule 309). Many clubs also run post-16 college and BTEC football programmes through their foundation, which can lead to a trial.
Nearest other academies
Approximate straight-line distance between academy bases. Journey times by road will be longer.
| Club | Category | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Mansfield Town | Category 3 | 9 miles |
| Sheffield United | Category 2 | 12 miles |
| Rotherham United | Category 3 | 12 miles |
| Sheffield Wednesday | Category 2 | 13 miles |
| Derby County | Category 1 | 20 miles |
| Barnsley | Category 2 | 22 miles |
Frequently asked questions
What category is the Chesterfield academy?
Chesterfield runs a Category 4 academy in 2026/27, with academy squads at Under-17 to Under-21.
How far can Chesterfield recruit academy players from?
Chesterfield can only register Under-17 to Under-21 players, and there is no travel limit at those ages.
Where does the Chesterfield academy train?
The Chesterfield academy is based at Chesterfield.
Source: Junior academy section launched for 2026/27 season (club) - extension of the 'category four academy' (2026 (pre-June trials; exact date not retrieved)); Junior section re-launch to help Chesterfield FC find more local talents (Derbyshire Times) (2026). Last checked 29 October 2026. Academy categories can change after an audit. If something here is out of date, email info@scout52.com.