The Talent Academy Pathway is a comprehensive framework designed by British Weight Lifting to support the growth and development of weightlifting at all levels, from community clubs to elite academies.

With a focus on inclusion, performance, and progression, the pathway empowers clubs to nurture talent, engage local communities, and achieve excellence.

This structured approach provides clear goals, funding opportunities, and tailored support to help clubs at every stage of development. Whether you're fostering grassroots participation or shaping future champions, the Talent Academy Pathway ensures every lift counts towards building a stronger weightlifting community.

Inclusion Academy

Confirmation Phase:

All Inclusion Academies are required to strictly adhere to established governance and policies to ensure they meet the standards set by British Weight Lifting.
Each academy must have at least two certified BWL Level 2 Coaches to ensure high-quality training and mentorship for their athletes.

Standard Delivery:

Inclusion Academies receive an annual funding of £500 to support the engagement and training of 20 individuals per year, helping to broaden participation in weightlifting at the grassroots level.
As part of their responsibilities, academies must ensure that at least one Technical Official is present and active during the Regional Age-Group Championships to support event operations.

Desired Delivery:

The goal for academies is to go beyond the standard requirements by engaging more than 25 individuals annually, showcasing their ability to expand and positively impact their local communities.
Academies are encouraged to bid for additional "Raise the Bar" projects or apply to host the Regional Age-Group Championships, further contributing to the development of weightlifting.
Establishing a strong partnership with a local school is essential, aiming for positive feedback on the delivery and organisation of weightlifting courses, with the potential to create or enhance dedicated training spaces for athletes.

Inclusion Academies engage with children in collaboration with their schools and in their local communities to introduce them to the sport of weightlifting.

Pathway Academy

Confirmation Phase:

To qualify as a Pathway Academy, clubs must meet specific performance criteria, including having at least five lifters participate in Age-Group competitions, three lifters compete in the English Championships, one athlete win a medal at the English Championships, and one athlete compete at the British Championships.
The academy must have at least three certified BWL Level 2 Coaches to ensure that lifters are guided by experienced and knowledgeable professionals.
Each Pathway Academy is required to submit a detailed project proposal outlining a two-year plan, with funding available of up to £10,000 spread across the two years.

Delivery:

Pathway Academies will continue to receive £500 annually to support "Raise the Bar" courses, which are crucial for promoting weightlifting to new audiences.
Academies are tasked with delivering "Raise the Bar" projects, supported by funding of up to £5,000 per year, with a focus on achieving key performance indicators (KPIs). These include engaging 30 children in at least two sessions per week and reaching 150 children through a workshop held once per term.
Selection as a Pathway Academy is determined by a panel discussion led by British Weight Lifting, and all accredited clubs undergo an annual review to retain their Pathway Academy status.

Pathway Academies have a proven track record of engaging large numbers of young athletes and providing a pathway for them to compete in the sport of weightlifting on a national level.

Performance Academy

Confirmation Phase:

To qualify as a Performance Academy, clubs must meet higher performance standards, including having five lifters compete in the English Championships, three lifters participate in the British Championships, and one athlete win a medal at the British Championships.
Performance Academies are expected to demonstrate a best-practice business model, incorporating detailed budgets, effective systems, succession planning, and a clear athlete development pathway from grassroots to competition.
The academy must establish a structured program with allocated school session times, dedicated training spaces, and a well-defined roadmap guiding student athletes from their starting point to competition readiness while aligning with the school year.
Developing a teacher or coach training plan is essential, ensuring that relevant staff can achieve BWL Level 2 qualifications and become competent in weightlifting techniques and equipment usage.

Delivery:

Performance Academies retain £500 annually for "Raise the Bar" courses and receive funding of up to £5,000 per year to deliver "Raise the Bar" projects.
To maintain their Performance Academy status, academies must achieve KPIs, such as engaging 30 children in three sessions per week, hosting workshops for 150 children each term, and recording 45 competition totals annually.
Similar to Pathway Academies, Performance Academies are selected through a panel discussion and must pass an annual review to maintain their accreditation.

Performance Academies distinguish themselves as successful, sustainable clubs that continuously develop high level athletes.

Additional Information:

Cycle Lengths:

Inclusion Academies follow a one-year cycle.
Pathway Academies and Performance Academies operate on two-year cycles to allow sufficient time for growth and development.