Athletics for children and young people

Children running on an athletics track

Our strategy

The England Athletics strategy states our ambition for the participation of children and young people in athletics: “We will maximise athletics opportunities for young people in schools and communities and enhance their first experiences of our sport to ensure the growth of athletics and running in England is sustained and results in the continued growth of the England Athletics and running family."

Whether you are a parent, a school teacher, a community leader or an affiliated club leader/youth coach lead, we present here an overview of how athletics can support you, to support children and young people with opportunities to enjoy, learn and develop athletics.

Young athletes outdoors

Providing opportunities and support from childhood to adulthood

Our purpose is to inspire more children and young people of all abilities and backgrounds to fulfil their potential and to have a lifelong love for the sport.

England Athletics works to grow opportunities for children and young people to experience athletics and running, at an early age, throughout their school/higher education years, and into adulthood.

The Personal Best Foundation, supported by England Athletics, gives children and young people the opportunity to achieve their personal best through the power of athletics. Its purpose is to change young lives through athletics.

Ultimately, we want children and young people to get excited about our sport, in a safe environment, and enjoy it.

Athletic boy holding a bottle

Where can a child access athletics and running?

England Athletics provides access to athletics and running in several connected environments:

Children running on athletics track. Image by Mary Taylor (Pexels)

How can a child experience the benefits of athletics?

We recognise there are different motivators for children and young people’s participation in athletics and running. With our partners and bespoke programmes the benefits come to life in varied experiences such: learning and development, competition and receiving awards.

    DBS Checks & Licensing

    England Athletics requires everyone in the sport who has significant contact with children and/or vulnerable adults to have a Disclosure and Barring Service check.