Our junior tennis programmes offer an exciting and engaging introduction to the sport for children of all ages and abilities. Through structured lessons and fun games, players learn key skills such as coordination, teamwork, and match play in a safe and encouraging setting. Each session is designed to help children build confidence, stay active, and develop a love for tennis while making new friends along the way.

Age & Ball Stages

Our junior sessions follow the LTA youth structure, ensuring children learn and progress in a way that is age-appropriate, enjoyable and aligned with national coaching standards. Each stage uses age-appropriate equipment — softer balls, smaller courts and lighter rackets — to help players build confidence and develop at their own pace.

Progression through the stages and ball colours usually takes place at the start of a new school year, allowing players to settle into their group and make smooth transitions as they grow.

• Tots Tennis (Ages 2–4)

A fun and engaging introduction to tennis through movement, balance, and coordination activities. These sessions focus on developing basic motor skills and confidence, using lots of games and soft equipment to create a positive first experience on court.

• Red Ball (Ages 5–8)

Played on smaller courts with larger, softer balls that bounce lower, Red Ball tennis helps children learn to serve, rally and score in a playful and supportive environment.

• Orange Ball (Ages 8–9)

Using a slightly faster ball on a bigger court, Orange Ball sessions help players improve consistency, movement and learn basic match tactics while continuing to develop their technical skills.

• Green Ball (Ages 9–10)

Players move up to a full-size court with slightly softer balls, working on refining their technique, building strength and understanding point construction in match play.

• Yellow Ball (Ages 11-18)

Played with standard tennis balls, Yellow Ball sessions help older juniors develop advanced technical and tactical skills in a social, engaging setting that encourages enjoyment and confidence on court.

Programme Structure & Booking

Our junior tennis sessions run on a term-time basis, with each block lasting between 11 and 15 weeks. Children attend one group coaching session per week, designed to provide consistency, support learning and help them progress throughout the term.

We aim to keep classes small, with an ideal 6:1 player-to-coach ratio, ensuring every child receives individual attention and guidance while still enjoying the benefits of group play and social interaction.

Players already enrolled in the programme receive priority enrolment for the following term. Once existing players have confirmed their spaces, any remaining places are then offered to children on the waiting list. Please note that the older the child is, the less likely it is that a space will become available, as most groups are already established and players choose to remain in the programme long-term.

Development Programme

Our development programme is designed to support players who participate in tournaments. These sessions focus on technical refinement, tactical awareness and match preparation, helping players develop the skills and confidence needed to compete at a higher level.

Participation in the Development Programme is by invitation only, based on a player’s ability, commitment and tournament experience. These sessions complement our regular coaching and provide a more intensive environment for players aiming to take their game further.

To join our expression of interest, please email communitytennis@aeltc.com.

Practical Information

To make the most of each session, please ensure your child brings:

• Tennis racket
• Water bottle
• Non-marking indoor shoes

Occasionally sessions may take place on the outdoor courts. In these cases, we will aim to inform you in advance, so your child is prepared for playing outside.

In the event of rain:

• Pay & Play sessions will be cancelled
• Courses will be moved indoors, with adjustments made to accommodate less space while still providing a fun and safe session

How to Join & Enrol

Current Schedule:

Tots:

• Tuesday:

9:15am to 10am - 2 to 3 years old

10:05am to 10:50am - 3 to 4 years old

• Thursday

9:15am to 10am - 3 to 4 years old

10:05am to 10:50am - 2 to 3 years old

• Red Ball:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 16:00 to 17:00

• Orange Ball:

Monday, Friday – 17:00 to 18:00

• Green Ball:

Monday, Friday – 17:00 to 18:00

• Yellow Ball (2015–2014):

Monday, Friday – 18:00 to 19:00

• Yellow Ball (2013–2007):

Monday, Friday – 19:00 to 20:00

Our junior programme is very popular, and when the courses are full we operate a waiting list. To register your interest and be offered a space when one becomes available, please email communitytennis@aeltc.com.