Headed by Manager Roger Arnott, the Academy strives to develop

players who are capable of performing in the Heart of Midlothian

FC first team.

We work with players from as young as six years of age and the

curriculum becomes progressively more demanding as the players

advance through the Academy.

The players focus mainly on technique, passing, movement and possession

during their early years in the Academy, learning new turns, new tricks

and they are encouraged to demonstrate their skills in match situations.

As the players progress through the Academy system they learn

the Hearts principles of play and enhance their knowledge of

the tactical aspects of the game.

Each player is developed with the very best input from the coaches,

the sports science team, the performance analysts, supported by a

first-class medical team.

Heart of Midlothian FC works closely with our partners Heriot-Watt

University and the Hearts Youth Development Committee (HYDC) to

deliver the very best Academy programme.

The success of the philosophy at Heart of Midlothian

Football Club is dependent upon the teamwork, dedication

and effort from every member of staff.

There is a genuine belief in the purpose, objective and

philosophy of the Academy by staff at all levels of the club

from head coach Robbie Neilson right down to the junior

Academy coaches. 

Academy Trials

Heart of Midlothian FC does not hold open trials for players

wishing to be part of the Academy. We have a large scouting

network which allows us to cover games and tournaments

across Scotland, which is our main source of recruiting

young players with outstanding ability.

Should anyone wish to be considered for a trial, the

following procedure applies.

Players between the age of six and 18 years are asked to

send their CV by way of supplying the following details to the club:

• Name
• Age & date of birth
• Contact address and telephone number
• Current club
• Position you play
• A list of forthcoming fixtures playing in

The recruitment staff will assess the details and make a

decision as to whether or not a scout will be sent to watch the games.

If the scout feels that the player has shown potential to play at

Academy level, an approach will be made to the manager of the

club as well as the player’s parents and the individual concerned

will be invited in for a trial with Heart of Midlothian FC.

The trial will last for a maximum of six weeks during which time

the player will train and play with the current registered players in

the relevant age group, monitored by the Academy staff.

A decision will be made within three to six weeks whether to sign

the player for Hearts or release him to be monitored at their club.

If someone does not receive a reply within 14 days,

please assume the request for a trial with Heart of

Midlothian Football Club has been unsuccessful.