A Performance Tennis Pathway within a Full Boarding School Education
The Stonyhurst Tennis Academy offers a clearly structured performance pathway for pupils ranging from development level through to county, regional and national standard.
Designed to support both progression and enjoyment of the game, the Academy provides expert coaching, competitive opportunities and outstanding facilities, all fully integrated within the rhythm of a full boarding school education. Pupils benefit from a balanced programme that develops athletic performance alongside academic excellence and personal growth.
Why Choose Tennis at Stonyhurst?
✔ Expert LTA-qualified coaching led by an internationally qualified Director of Tennis
✔ Structured performance pathway from development through to county, regional and national level
✔ Individual coaching alongside performance-focused group sessions
✔ Competitive school fixtures, tours and national competitions including the LTA Glanville and Aberdare Cups
✔ Outstanding indoor and outdoor facilities, including the Tennis Dome with two Grand Slam courts for year-round training
✔ Individual progression within Academy, School and Development squads
✔ Opportunities to train in an elite boarding school environment while maintaining academic balance
✔ Recognised as a Top Six UK School for Tennis by Which School Advisor
Tennis Programme Pathways
Our Tennis Pathway
Players move through the pathway based on their standard of play within their age group, ensuring appropriate challenge, progression and long-term development.
The programme includes:
-
Development, School and Academy squads
-
Individual lessons and performance-focused group sessions
-
Competitive school fixtures, tours and team competitions
-
Indoor and outdoor courts, including the Tennis Dome with two Grand Slam courts, enabling consistent, year-round training
As an LTA Registered Venue, Stonyhurst is eligible to enter the National LTA Glanville and Aberdare Cups — the pinnacle of British schools tennis — giving pupils the opportunity to compete at the highest national level.
The quality of coaching and facilities was further recognised when renowned coach Judy Murray visited Stonyhurst, engaging with pupils and showcasing our tennis environment.
Stonyhurst was also named one of the Top Six UK Schools for Tennis ahead of Wimbledon 2025 by Which School Advisor, reflecting the strength of the College’s tennis provision and competitive opportunities.
Expert Leadership and Individual Progression
The Tennis Academy is led by highly qualified and experienced professionals:
-
Director of Tennis: David Shaw, internationally qualified LTA Level 5 Coach
-
Senior Performance Coach: Liz Thomas, LTA Level 4 Senior Performance Coach
Coaching provision includes:
-
Academy squads for county, regional and national players (by invitation)
-
Structured group programmes across Prep and College
-
Individual performance coaching on indoor or outdoor courts
All tennis activity is fully integrated with the school day and boarding life, enabling pupils to train seriously while maintaining academic focus and wellbeing.
Coaching & Programme Costs
Key Contacts
Scholarship Pathways
Stonyhurst offers Sports Scholarships each year for talented pupils who demonstrate exceptional ability and commitment in their chosen discipline. Designed to support young athletes in pursuing excellence both academically and in sport, these awards provide access to our specialist coaching programmes within a full boarding school education.
