Bath Tennis Club is strengthening its ties with local families through its Schools Link Programme, helping children across the city discover tennis while building confidence, wellbeing and life skills.
At the heart of the initiative is a commitment to long-term partnerships with local schools, creating clear and accessible pathways into sport for young people of all abilities.
The club currently works with five nearby primary schools – Newbridge, Wasps (Weston All Saints Primary School), St Mary’s, St Andrew’s and Bathwick St Mary’s – with each partnership carefully developed to support pupils both on and off the court.
The programme goes well beyond tennis coaching. It is designed to open up opportunities, boost confidence and give children a safe, structured environment to learn and grow outdoors.
Through Head Coach Rich Little and the wider team, free curriculum-time taster sessions have been delivered across partner schools. These sessions aim to remove barriers and ensure every child has the chance to pick up a racket, regardless of experience or background.
For many young players, these early sessions are the starting point of a longer journey. Children are encouraged to develop coordination, resilience and teamwork, while also discovering the mental health benefits of regular physical activity.
Bath Tennis Club then provides a natural next step, with a range of sessions designed to keep children engaged and progressing.
- After-school clubs run either in schools or at the club, offering a fun continuation of what pupils have already experienced.
- The popular Saturday Morning Youth Programme provides structured coaching for all levels, helping children build skills, friendships and a strong sense of belonging.
- Holiday camps offer active, sociable days during the school break, while flexible drop-in sessions allow children to take part at their own pace.
- The club also supports secondary school enrichment, hosting dedicated tennis days for students from Hayesfield school and Beechen Cliff school.
Beyond sport, the programme focuses on the wider development of each child. It promotes positive mental health, encourages social interaction and helps young people build confidence through achievement and progression.
For parents, the club offers more than a place for children to play. It is a welcoming hub where families can connect, relax and even get involved themselves. Parents can enjoy the clubhouse, meet other families or take part in social tennis sessions, making it easier to build tennis into family life.
Community events also play a key role, with three major dates planned for 2026.
- Try Tennis on Saturday 25 April offers a relaxed introduction for all ages.
- A Wimbledon Weekend Strawberries & Cream Festival on Sunday 5 July celebrates summer and community spirit.
- A Community Tennis Cancer Awareness Festival on Sunday 13 September combines sport with an important health message.
All events are open to local families and schools, offering an easy way to get involved.
Looking ahead, Bath Tennis Club sees the Schools Link Programme as a long-term investment in both the sport and the community.
By working closely with schools and families, the club is helping to grow participation, support healthier lifestyles and create a welcoming space where young people can thrive.
For more information, contact Andrew Kettle at email hidden; JavaScript is required or Rich Little at email hidden; JavaScript is required.
