The first programme of its kind between Heart of Midlothian Education and Community Trust and Scottish Borders Council (SBC) has been launched giving 12 young people from across the Borders the opportunity to become better citizens and realise the benefits of growing up in a positive and productive way.

The nine-week 'Onside' programme runs until 31 March 2010 and has been designed to address issues which may result in the young people becoming involved in risky behaviours.

The programme is staffed by SBC's Community Learning and Development, Learning Support, Youth Justice, the SFA's Development Officer and Heart of Midlothian Education and Community Trust staff and coaches.

They work directly with the young people who have been recommended for the programme to build their confidence and help them understand the consequences of their behaviour.

The young people will be involved in a variety of activities every Wednesday at the Hearts Football Academy with some elements held locally under the guidance of Senior SFA Development Officer Dougie Anderson.

Areas which will be covered include:

  • Teambuilding and teamwork
  • Respect for others
  • Practical coaching sessions
  • Interactive cooking and diet session with Hearts' head chef
  • Fitness testing with the Hearts sports scientist
  • Motivational talk with former players
  • SFA Early Touches coaching certificate

    A great bonus for the young people is that they attend a Hearts match as guests of the club!

    Hearts community development manager Alan White said, "This programme is the first of its kind in partnership with Scottish Borders Council. We are delighted to welcome them to Tynecastle and hope it is the beginning of a long and successful relationship."

    Executive Member for Sport, Culture and Community Learning Councillor Graham Garvie added: "This is an inspirational initiative which could make a real positive difference to the lives of these twelve youngsters. I hope they grasp this opportunity to learn from the experience and use it to better themselves for the future. I would like to thank Hearts for their commitment to this project and look forward to hearing how the young people benefit from it so we can hopefully continue to offer it to others."

    The twelve participants will attend a final presentation event on 31 March at Tynecastle.

    Photo caption: (Back Row L to R) Gary Mackay (Hearts), Hagan Steele (Earlston HS), Kumbirai Ndoro (Earlston HS), Keith Smith (Hawick HS), Kieran Mitchell (Earlston HS), Jordan Copeland (Earlston HS), Mickey Weir (Hibs); (Front Row L to R) David Tweedie (Earlston HS), Kieran Hocking (Gala Academy), Sindy Collins (Kelso HS), Nathan Brown (Selkirk HS), Hagan Steele (Earlston HS). Not in photo - Jonathan Williamson (Hawick HS) Nathan Trotter (Selkirk HS).