Update on ESAA decision around Age Groups

England Athletics has received confirmation from the English Schools Athletics Association (ESAA) that, following a Special Council Meeting, it will adopt the new “even” age groups for its track and field competitions from 1 September 2026.

In June, we issued a statement outlining ESAA’s initial decision not to adopt the change from 1 April 2026. Since then, England Athletics has continuously engaged ESAA to encourage them to reconsider its position in the best interests of athletes and those involved in delivery of the sport in both clubs and school settings. Over 90% of athletes competing at ESAA national championships are registered club members, and we all aspire for the many children competing at district and county level events to transition into clubs.

England Athletics is pleased that, from 2027, all track and field competitions in England will be delivered under the same rules, using the same implements and technical specifications. However, we recognise that there will be challenges to face between April and September 2026.

Throughout the process, our priority remains putting the young athletes at the heart of our decision making and we believe that it is in the best interests of those athletes, their parents and their coaches for all track and field competitions in 2026 to be held under the same rules. This is especially the case for hurdlers and throwers, who are most affected by misalignment between the odd and even age groups and associated technical specifications, so dialogue continues with ESAA to ensure appropriate arrangements are in place for these disciplines in 2026. A final update is expected in January.

ESAA has also decided not to adopt age group changes in cross country and is reviewing this alongside their plans for Combined Events. We have kept UKA informed during this time, given ESAA Championships are Level 2 licensed events.

England Athletics recognises that organisers of county schools' championships and intercounty schools events will need to make decisions on the format of their own events and apply for competition licences in due course, whether these are standalone meetings or held in partnership with a county athletics association. We would expect these events to follow the 2026 UKA Rules for Competition. However, we also recognise that some may choose to mirror ESAA’s track and field format once finalised. Where this is the case, we expect Level 1 licences would be issued.

The England Athletics Board met on 20 November to review progress and consider funding support for ESAA in 2026. We will provide further updates as discussions continue and we remain committed to working closely with ESAA to ensure a positive change for the sport, together.