Running throughout September, the programme gives children the opportunity to stay active, build confidence, develop coordination, and learn new skills while enjoying one of the world’s most accessible lifelong sports.Designed for beginners and developing players alike, sessions focus on creating a positive first experience of tennis while encouraging teamwork, perseverance, and healthy habits.
This summer, Giving Back Generation is launching the GBG Youth Tennis Academy — an eight-week programme designed to introduce children aged 7–12 to tennis in a fun, supportive and structured environment.
Running every Sunday evening from 9 August to 27 September 2026, the programme will give children the opportunity to stay active, build confidence, improve coordination and develop practical tennis skills while enjoying a positive community sports experience.
The academy is suitable for complete beginners as well as children who have played tennis before. No previous experience is required.
Sessions will combine guided coaching, movement activities, racket skills, teamwork, challenges and game-based learning. The focus will remain on enjoyment, participation and steady progress rather than competitive performance.
Sunday, 9 August 2026
The opening session will introduce children to the court, equipment and basic rules of tennis.
Children will take part in friendly movement activities and team games designed to help them feel comfortable, meet the group and begin developing confidence.
Session focus:
Sunday, 16 August 2026
Children will begin learning how to hold and control a tennis racket while moving safely and confidently around the court.
Activities will help participants improve hand-eye coordination, balance and reaction speed.
Session focus:
Sunday, 23 August 2026
This session will introduce the basic forehand technique.
Children will learn how to prepare, make contact with the ball and follow through using simple coaching activities and games.
Session focus:
Sunday, 30 August 2026
Children will be introduced to the backhand and learn how it differs from the forehand.
The session will focus on control, posture and developing confidence using both sides of the racket.
Session focus:
Sunday, 6 September 2026
Children will begin learning how a tennis point starts.
The coach will introduce basic serving movements and help participants understand how to begin and maintain a simple rally.
Session focus:
Sunday, 13 September 2026
This session will focus on keeping the ball in play and moving effectively around the court.
Children will work in pairs and small groups to improve communication, concentration and control.
Session focus:
Sunday, 20 September 2026
Children will be introduced to simple match play, scoring and friendly competition.
The emphasis will remain on effort, respect and learning rather than winning.
Session focus:
Sunday, 27 September 2026
The programme will conclude with a fun community tennis session celebrating the children’s progress.
Participants will have the opportunity to use the skills they have developed through games, friendly challenges and mini competitions.
Families and supporters may also be invited to attend or participate, subject to venue arrangements.
The final session may include:
By taking part in the Youth Tennis Academy, children will have opportunities to:
The programme is open to children aged 7–12 of all abilities.
It is suitable for:
No previous tennis experience is required.
Children should bring:
Information about rackets and equipment will be confirmed when places are offered.
Programme dates: Sunday, 9 August to Sunday, 27 September 2026
Duration: Eight weeks
Frequency: Weekly
Session day: Sunday evenings
Age group: 7–12 years
Location: North London — venue to be confirmed
Ability level: Open to all abilities
Previous experience: Not required
Booking: Required in advance
Places: Subject to availability and venue capacity
To register your interest in the GBG Youth Tennis Academy, email tennis@givingbackgeneration.org.uk.
Please include:
Places are limited and will be confirmed subject to availability.
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