The 16-year-old has brought his time at Brentwood to a close after a season in which he broke into Arsenal’s first team and rewrote Premier League records.
Max Dowman has left Brentwood School after completing his GCSEs, allowing the 16-year-old to turn his attention fully towards his career with Arsenal.
Dowman collected his results on 20 August, although his grades have not been made public.
He said: “I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to Brentwood School for everything they have done for me during my time here. Although my journey at the school is ending earlier than expected as I pursue my football career, I will always be incredibly grateful for the support that the school and the staff have given me. The lessons I have learned, both on and off the pitch, will stay with me as I take this next step in my journey.”
Dowman also singled out three members of staff for the part they played during his time at the school.
He added: “A special thanks to Mrs Crowley, Mr Gamester and Miss Antonello for their kindness, support and encouragement throughout my time at Brentwood.
“I will always be grateful for the difference they have made to my experience here. I leave with some fantastic memories and friendships that I will always cherish.
“I am excited for what the future holds, but I will always look back on my time at Brentwood with great pride and gratitude.”
Brentwood marked Dowman’s departure in its post-GCSE round-up, reflecting on a year in which the Arsenal youngster moved decisively into senior football.
The school said: “After a year in which he broke too many records to list here, including becoming the youngest ever Premier League goalscorer, Max D completed his GCSEs as he moved very firmly into the world of professional football at the very highest level with Arsenal FC.”
Dowman’s footballing journey began with Billericay Town, where Arsenal scouts spotted him playing above his age group. His Arsenal-supporting family chose Hale End when he joined the club’s academy at eight in 2015.
His progress accelerated quickly. He made his under-18 debut under Jack Wilshere at 13 and became the UEFA Youth League’s youngest goalscorer at 14.
By 2025-26, Dowman had broken into Arsenal’s first team.
He made his Premier League debut against Leeds United at 15 years and 235 days before becoming Arsenal’s youngest-ever starter against Brighton.
He then became the youngest player in Champions League history after appearing against Slavia Prague.
Then came another record in March 2026. Dowman’s late goal against Everton made him the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history.
He went on to make six league appearances as Arsenal won the title, while supporters later voted his goal against Everton as the club’s 2025-26 Goal of the Season.
- Analysing Arsenal women player minutes so farArsenal’s first seven games reveal a striking split in playing time, with several established and new players barely featuring under Renee Slegers.
- Arsenal suffer more injuries during international break than any other Premier League sideArsenal return from the international break with more injury problems than any Premier League rival, after six players were affected while away.
- New Arsenal signing withdraws from international duty with ‘knee problems’Selina Cerci has withdrawn from Germany duty with a knee problem after a limited start to life at Arsenal following her summer move.
- New Arsenal deal makes Arteta best paid Premier League managerMikel Arteta’s new Arsenal contract reportedly puts him top of the Premier League pay table after last season’s title success.
- Arsenal youngster receives MBE from Prince WilliamMichelle Agyemang has received her MBE at Windsor Castle after a remarkable rise from Arsenal’s academy to international recognition.