The Youth Talent Programme (YTP) is the first step on the Talent pathway designed to meet the needs of identified, talented English athletes aged between 16 and 18 years of age and their coaches. The programme focuses on developing a dual career for the 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 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.
Download the YTP coaching offer (PDF 317kB)
For those athletes in full-time education the YTP will allow the 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 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 four stages:
- Stage 1 – Athlete/Coach application. Apply online. Closing date 9am Monday 5 September
- Stage 2 – Selection Panel
- Stage 3 – Induction
Athletes who are not successful through the initial selection process will be offered the opportunity to attend the England Athletics regional programme and there are multiple pathway entry points for athletes to join programmes at a later date.
- Download the YTP guide for athletes, coaches and parents (PDF 1.5MB)
- Download the YTP selection policy (PDF 172kB)
- Download the Frequently Asked Questions document (PDF 118kB)
Talent Programme 2022-23 launch webinar
An overview of the Talent Pathway along with an update on the Youth and Junior Talent Programmes, plus an outline of the application process and a chance for attendees to ask questions.
A recording of the live webinar hosted by Alan Richardson (YTP Manager) and Darren Ritchie (Junior Talent Programme Project Lead), 18 July 2022.
- View the accompanying webinar slides (PDF 4MB)
- Watch the webinar on YouTube