Derby County Football Club's Academy and training centre underlines a long-term desire to enhance Derby's reputation as one of the country's leading clubs.

One of the oldest names in British football, Derby County has a stadium to match its European ambitions.

Pride Park Stadium, opened by The Queen in July 1997, is acknowledged as being one of the finest of the modern stadiu and is category A-listed for international matches.

The new Academy answers the criteria demanded by the Football Association's youth development recommendations in its Charter for Quality document.

Managed by ten full-time and 15 part-time staff, all fully committed to setting high standards both on and off the field, the Derby County Academy comprises of 130 junior players from under eight to under 18.

All Academy players have shown the potential to achieve at the highest level.

The ultimate aim for players is to progress through the Academy system and emerge as a Premiership-standard player for our first-team.

For those players who do not reach the required high standards to progress within the Academy framework, they take with them invaluable experience gained during their time with us.

In order to maximise young player potential, we strive for excellence in every aspect of our work.

We adhere strictly to the Charter of Quality, which clearly lays down the blueprint for the future of youth football.