Football Dreams: The Academy follows the unique relationships between staff, players and their families at the South London based Crystal Palace Academy to reveal the work that goes in to developing the next generation of footballing talent. Filmed over twelve months, the series captures the hopes and dreams of the Academy squads, and club coaches and staff who help the young players achieve their potential. Aged between eight to 18, these players are all striving to complete the life-changing journey from grassroots football to Premier League star. One of the most prestigious football academies in the country, the Crystal Palace Academy has developed established Premier League stars such as Wilfried Zaha and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, as well as the current England manager Gareth Southgate and former Premier League winner Victor Moses. Thirty-two players have come through the Academy ranks in the last 14 years, making more than 1,000 appearances for the club. The Club recently invested £20m upgrading the Academy, with a major expansion of football facilities and an increased focus on welfare provision and education for players to give them the best possible preparation for life on and off the field.