England Athletics Youth Talent Programme

The Youth Talent Programme (YTP) is the first step on the Talent pathway designed to meet the needs of identified, talented English athletes/para athletes aged between 16 and 18 years of age and their coaches.The programme focuses on developing a dual career for the athlete/para athlete through fulfilling their potential within the sport and also in their education and employability.

Aims of the programme

The programme aims to complement club provision and add value to the athlete/para athlete and coach plan to help develop a broad range of skills, abilities and behaviours needed for senior success. This is delivered through practical training sessions with like-minded athletes in their event group, performance support sessions and workshops. There is also the opportunity for coaches to access additional qualifications, mentoring and support delivered through the England Athletics YTP coaches.

For those athletes in full-time education the YTP will allow the athlete/para athlete to gain an academic support qualification (Diploma in Sporting Excellence) allowing progression either to further / higher education or to gain employment within a related field. Those athletes/para athletes not in full-time education will be able to access the YTP content and use skills gained from their training to support their personal development and progression without the qualification.

Applications for the Youth Talent Programme

The selection process is split across three stages:

• Stage 1 – Athlete/Coach application. Apply now.
• Stage 2 – Selection Panel
• Stage 3 – Induction
• The programme focuses on developing a dual career for the athlete/para athlete through fulfilling their potential within the sport and also in their education and employability.