Eligibility Guide: City of Edinburgh Sports Academy Programme

The City of Edinburgh Sports Academy targets young athletes with high potential. Here’s who can apply and what’s expected.

Basic Requirements

• Residency/Education: Attend a school in the City of Edinburgh Council area, or study at a sport-focused college/university within the area.
• Age/Stage: Aged 14–16, having turned 14 by the October before the programme starts, OR be in S3 (or the year below an apprenticeship).

Performance & Attitude Criteria

• Demonstrate high promise in your chosen sport.
• Seek a high-quality development experience aimed at national-level performance.
• Commit to attending every training session (barring injury).
• Show motivation, drive, and a strong desire to succeed.
• Maintain a positive attitude toward learning and teamwork.
• Have good school attendance, work toward qualifications, and uphold high behavioural standards.

Why These Standards?

The Academy invests limited resources in athletes who combine talent with discipline. Meeting these criteria signals readiness for the structured, demanding environment needed to progress toward elite competition.