🏅 TBS Elite Sports Support Programme – Now Extended to State, National and International Athletes
After 18+ months of successful implementation, TBS is launching Phase 2 of the Elite Sports Support Programme with tiered criteria and proportionate support strategies.
We take immense pride in nurturing student-athletes who balance academic excellence with high-level sporting commitments. After the successful implementation of the Elite Sports Support Programme for over 18 months, we are delighted to announce the second phase of this initiative.
At TBS, we recognise the unique demands placed on students who represent their sport at elite levels. These athletes often require additional time away from school for training, travel, and competition.
To ensure that no student feels they are constantly “catching up” on missed learning, TBS has developed a preponed academic support model. This approach involves proactive planning—teachers identify potential missed learning opportunities ahead of time and map out strategies to ensure students stay on track academically.
How the Elite Sports Support Programme Works
- Advance Learning Planning: Once a student’s tournament schedule is known, staff collaborate to identify topics, assignments, and assessments that may be affected.
- Pre-emptive Academic Support: Learning materials and guidance are provided ahead of time to minimise disruption.
- Dedicated Elite Sports Co-ordinator:
- Acts as the primary contact for the student, parents, and teachers.
- Supports academic scheduling, wellbeing, and communication between teachers.
- Assists in managing internal deadlines during busy competition periods.
This holistic support ensures a balanced focus on both sporting performance and academic achievement, while maintaining student wellbeing.
Phase 2: Eligibility and Tiered Support
Building on the success of the initial model (for international athletes), Phase 2 expands the programme to include students competing at the State, National, and International levels.
TBS will now operate a tiered criteria system that recognises the varying demands and commitments of different competition levels. Each tier will be aligned with specific School Support Strategies to ensure proportionate and meaningful assistance.
| Tier | Level of Competition | Examples of Support Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | State Level | Flexible submission dates, short-term learning plans, catch-up sessions |
| Tier 2 | National Level | Pre-planned work allocation, subject check-ins, mentor oversight, wellbeing review |
| Tier 3 | International Level | Elite Co-ordinator support, dual time-zone academic access, structured return plan, wellbeing tracking |
Application and Review Process
- Applications Open: Apply Here (Closes on Monday, 19 January 2026)
- Who Can Apply: Students of Year 10 and above, who have represented or will represent, their state, or their country in recognised sports competitions.
- How to Apply: Parents are invited to express interest via the Elite Sports Support Programme Application Form (details shared at the start of Term 3).
- Review Panel: A school panel will evaluate applications based on level of competition, time commitment, and academic readiness.
- Notification: Families will receive communication of the decision after the review process concludes.
Note: Participation levels and support tiers will be reviewed periodically to ensure alignment with each student’s current commitments and academic progress.
🧩 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible to apply for the Elite Sports Support Programme?
Students who have represented or are currently representing their state, national, or international teams in recognised competitions are eligible to apply. The programme is open to students across year groups who demonstrate consistent commitment to both their sport and academic responsibilities.
Does my child need to be competing in a specific sport to qualify?
No. The programme supports a wide range of sports, provided participation is through officially recognised state, national, or international sporting bodies. The key eligibility factor is the level of competition and sustained engagement in training and events.
How recent should the participation at state/national/international level be?
Students should have competed at the respective level within the past 6–9 months, or hold official confirmation of selection for an upcoming recognised event.
What documents or evidence are required with the application?
Parents should provide official selection letters, event schedules, and certification or endorsement from the relevant sports authority or coach confirming participation and competition level.
How often is eligibility reviewed or renewed?
Eligibility is reviewed annually to ensure that each student continues to meet the criteria and that the level of support remains appropriate. If a student’s competition level changes, their tier and support will be adjusted accordingly.
How does TBS define “State,” “National,” and “International” levels for eligibility?
- State Level: Representation at officially recognised inter-district or state-level tournaments.
- National Level: Representation at officially recognised national championships or selection to a national training camp.
- International Level: Representation of the country in international tournaments or federated competitions abroad.
What are the differences between Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 support?
Each tier aligns with the level of competition and time commitment required:
- Tier 1 (State): Flexible submission dates, short-term learning plans, and structured catch-up opportunities.
- Tier 2 (National): Pre-planned academic work, subject check-ins, and coordinated mentoring.
- Tier 3 (International): Full Elite Sports Co-ordinator support, dual time-zone academic access, structured return plans, and wellbeing tracking.
Can a student move from one tier to another during the year?
Yes. Movement between tiers is possible based on verified changes in the level of competition. For example, a student progressing from state to national level will be reassigned to the corresponding tier.
Will Tier 1 or Tier 2 students also have access to an Elite Sports Co-ordinator?
Yes. The Elite Sports Co-ordinator oversees all students in the programme, although the frequency and depth of support vary by tier.
How does the school ensure academic fairness for students not in the programme?
All students are assessed on the same learning outcomes and standards. The programme does not alter expectations—it provides flexible routes to meet them, ensuring equity rather than advantage.
How is missed learning tracked and supported?
Teachers maintain an ongoing record of missed lessons, topics, and assessments for each participating student. The Elite Sports Co-ordinator monitors these records and ensures recovery plans are completed within a reasonable timeframe.
Will my child receive additional tutoring or catch-up sessions upon return?
Yes, where required. Subject teachers and mentors may arrange brief catch-up or guided study sessions depending on the duration of absence and the subjects affected.
How are internal deadlines and assessments managed during absence?
Internal deadlines are adjusted in consultation with teachers before departure. Students may complete key work ahead of time or shortly after their return, depending on the assessment type and schedule.
Are students expected to submit all assignments while away competing?
Students are encouraged to remain engaged, but flexibility is offered considering time zones, travel demands, and recovery schedules. Key assessments and major coursework are prioritised through pre-agreed plans.
How do teachers and the Elite Sports Co-ordinator communicate with each other?
The Co-ordinator maintains a shared communication log accessible to relevant staff, ensuring that updates on academic progress, wellbeing, and timelines are communicated effectively and consistently.
How does the school monitor student wellbeing during long training or travel periods?
The Elite Sports Co-ordinator conducts regular wellbeing check-ins with students to monitor engagement, rest, and mental balance. The school counsellor or mentor teacher may be involved if additional support is needed.
What is the role of parents in this process?
Parents are essential partners in this process. They are encouraged to keep the school informed about upcoming events, travel dates, and schedules, and to support their child in maintaining a healthy balance between academics, training, and rest.
Who should we contact if our child struggles to manage both schoolwork and training?
Parents should contact the Elite Sports Co-ordinator, who will liaise with relevant teachers to make adjustments or provide additional academic and emotional support.
Are there counselling or wellbeing resources available for athletes under this programme?
Yes. Students can access TBS’s wellbeing support network, including counselling services, mentor guidance, and wellbeing programmes that focus on balance, resilience, and time management.
Will participation in this programme affect attendance records or promotion eligibility?
No. Approved absences under this programme are recorded as authorised, provided students maintain academic progress and engagement. Participation in the programme does not impact promotion or progression criteria.
How are time-zone touchpoints scheduled and conducted?
Time-zone touchpoints are pre-agreed communication windows (via email, MS Teams, or message) that allow students and teachers to interact during overseas travel. These sessions help maintain academic continuity without overburdening the athlete’s competition schedule.
What happens if a competition clashes with major exams?
The Elite Sports Co-ordinator and subject leads will review the situation and, where permitted, explore alternative arrangements in line with school policy and examination board guidelines.
Can privately organised tournaments be considered under this support model?
No. Only events recognised by official governing bodies will be eligible under the Elite Sports Support Programme. This ensures standardisation and fairness across all sports.
How will feedback or progress updates be shared with parents?
Parents receive periodic progress updates from the Elite Sports Co-ordinator summarising academic engagement, wellbeing, and upcoming focus areas. Additional meetings may be arranged when required.
What happens if my child’s sporting commitments reduce—does the support continue?
If elite-level participation reduces, the level of support will be adjusted accordingly. Students may continue to receive light monitoring and guidance during the transition period back to regular routines.