Football Development Schools

Welcome to Football Development Schools (FDS), based in Market Harborough, New Zealand. FDS, in association with Aston Villa Football Club, is dedicated to providing young players aged 5 to 14 years old with the opportunity to develop their football skills and progress from local clubs to professional academies. However, our mission extends beyond football skills, as we also strive to nurture responsible, mature, and trustworthy young individuals.

In partnership with Aston Villa Football Club, one of the leading professional football clubs in the Midlands, FDS is proud to scout over 7,000 children each week throughout the East Midlands. We actively search for talented players to join Aston Villa Development Centres, Shadow Squads, and the Academy. Our collaboration with Aston Villa reinforces our commitment to developing homegrown players and enhances our ability to identify and recruit players for the club.

The excellence of Football Development Schools has been recognised by Aston Villa Football Club. Steve Hopcroft, AVFC Head of Academy Recruitment, has expressed his delight in partnering with FDS, citing their excellent track record in developing players for local academies. Scott Curry, AVFC Talent iD Project and Development Manager, also commends FDS for the quality of their programme and believes it plays a crucial role in developing future professional football players for Aston Villa.

At FDS, we offer a range of programmes and opportunities for young players. Our Aston Villa FC Development Centres focus on developing players' skills and aim to secure them a place in a Shadow Squad. The Aston Villa FC Shadow Squads provide young players with the chance to enhance their skills through training and match experience against other professional clubs. Selected players also have the opportunity to participate in FDS European Tours, gaining valuable tournament experience and further developing their skills.

Additionally, we offer school programmes and holiday courses to provide a platform for young players to refine their abilities.

In addition to our local endeavours, FDS also offers international opportunities. FDS in Finland allows young Finnish players to experience professional English coaching and unlock their full potential.

To learn more about Football Development Schools, our origins, and our football philosophy, visit our “About Us” page on social media or club directories. We would like to extend our gratitude to our partners and sponsors for their support in our endeavours. For bookings and further information, please don't hesitate to contact us at bookings@developmentschools. co.

uk or call us at 01858 461166.

You can find us at Unit 8, St Marys Business Park, Albany Road, Market Harborough, LE16 7QJ. Stay up to date with the latest football news by following us on Twitter @AVFCOfficial.