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6 November 2026 · By Charlie Wenham

Football for 4 Year Olds: Pre-School or Reception Class?

Four year olds can fit into two of our groups. Here's the difference between our pre-school and Reception classes, and how to choose.

A group of First Steps Soccer players with their coaches

Four is a funny age for football. Some 4 year olds are still at nursery, others have just started school, and they're all at different stages. That's why we have two groups a 4 year old can join.

Pre-school classes (until they start school)

  • 40 minutes long
  • Parents join in alongside their child
  • Lots of touches on the ball, shooting, balance and coordination
  • Games for the whole class, finishing with the parachute

Best for 4 year olds who haven't started school yet, or who are still happiest with a parent close by. Read more about pre-school football.

Reception and Year 1 classes (once they're at school)

  • 50 minutes long, led by our coaches, with parents watching from the side
  • Much more time dribbling with the ball
  • Their first matches: 1v1s, 2v2s and small-sided games
  • The first ideas of using space and passing to a teammate

Best for 4 year olds in Reception who are ready to work a bit more independently. Read more about football for Reception and Year 1.

How to choose

A simple rule: if your child has started school, the Reception class is usually the right fit. If they haven't, or they're still finding their feet with new groups, pre-school is a great place to start. If you're not sure, book a free trial and our coaches will help you decide.

Classes near you

We run classes across Bristol, Swindon and Chippenham. Classes are £39 a month for one child, with a free trial to start. Find a class and book your free trial.

Keep reading

Football classes near you: Bristol · Swindon · Chippenham

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