TT Kidz is our programme to give 7-to-11-year-olds a fun and inspiring introduction to table tennis.

First launched in 2019 and now given a makeover to make it even better, TT Kidz is all about making children’s first experiences of table tennis fun, exciting and memorable.

TT Kidz is free for Table Tennis England PremierClubs, with clubs being invited to join a choice webinars in November to find out more about how they can deliver the programme.

Sessions are packed with games, challenges and activities that encourage children to have a go, try new things and enjoy learning.

The original eight-week series has been replaced with an ongoing programme which is designed to be even more welcoming and inclusive, giving children of all abilities the opportunity to progress at their own pace.

As their skills develop, so does their confidence, with regular opportunities to recognise progress, celebrate achievements and feel proud of what they can do.

They progress through four levels – Bronze, Silver, Gold and Graduate, giving them the skills, confidence and knowledge to progress into other table tennis sessions at their club and continue playing regularly.

A recognised, beginner-friendly programme gives parents, guardians and carers a simple and reassuring way to introduce their children to table tennis, with a clear route into club membership.

We are providing clubs and coaches with more than 70 activity cards and supporting video resources – helping less experienced volunteers get involved, while allowing experienced coaches to deliver skills they already know how to coach, but suggesting new ways to get them across.

What about the cost? Well, rather than a fixed cost, clubs can choose how much to charge participants – with the emphasis on affordability and flexible payment options.

The emphasis is on making TT Kidz as flexible as possible for participants and creating a pathway where every child can have fun and progress at their own pace.

Lauren Evans, who leads on TT Kidz for Table Tennis England, says: “We’re aiming to give children a positive first experience of our sport. Playing a sport like table tennis gives children confidence, a sense of achievement, and it helps them with a sense of belonging and somewhere to connect with their friends and family.

“The programme recognises that children start at different levels and progress at different speeds. It provides an opportunity for them to progress with confidence and learn in their own time.

“The sessions will be delivered by coaches and activators, and at the end of each level that kids complete, whether that’s Bronze, Silver, Gold or Graduate, they will receive a certificate.

“Every little bit of achievement, we want to celebrate that. We want to make children feel good and we want them to keep motivated to come back to sessions in the future.”