YTP applications close on 7th Sept
Posted by Club Secretary on 9 August 2026
The Committee are flagging a national opportunity: the England Athletics Youth Talent Programme (YTP), open to athletes starting Year 12 this September (aged 16–18).
What is it?
A two-year programme (2026–2028) that sits alongside your child’s club training, adding specialist coaching, physio, psychology and nutrition support through England Athletics’ Talent Hubs (Loughborough, Birmingham, Leeds, St Mary’s).
Key benefits
∙ Training weekends and camps with athletes in the same event group
∙ Access to specialist support staff and expert coaching
∙ Option to gain the Diploma in Sporting Excellence – worth 64 UCAS points (A* equivalent)
∙ Recognised place within the national talent pathway
∙ Hardship Fund available for those selected
Eligibility
∙ Aged 16–18, starting Year 12, British passport holder eligible to compete for England/GB & NI
∙ Not enrolled on an elite sports apprenticeship alongside YTP
∙ Open to all event groups, including para-athletes
The assessment
Applications are reviewed by a selection panel who look at the whole picture, not just one number. They consider:
∙ Performance ranking (via Power of 10)
∙ Progression and consistency over the season
∙ Major competition history
∙ Injury and training history
∙ Training environment and lifestyle
∙ Physical maturation relative to their event
Timeline
∙ Webinar: Wed 29 July, 7pm )whilst this has passed a recording of last years webinar can be found on the website)
∙ Application deadline: 7 September 2026
∙ Induction camp: 24–25 October 2026
Next steps
1. Read the YTP guide and full details https://www.englandathletics.org/team-england/talent-pathway/youth-talent-programme/
2. Chat with your child’s coach about fit
3. Apply before 7 September https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=LGf4yXKLQkumNXapiOBDZTxeF76qGgRNsnY9FBD6OL9UM041MTdDWFZPNEc2WFU5WE83RkVHUlFLQi4u
This won’t suit every athlete, but every eligible family should have the chance to consider it.
