What is Summer of Sport?

Edinburgh Leisure has secured funding, facilitated by sportscotland and Scottish Golf, to deliver free and discounted activities for children and young people from low incomes as part of the 2026 Summer of Sport.

These activities are designed to help young people develop healthy habits, build stronger social connections, and foster a lifelong love of movement.

Only children and young people that reside within the City of Edinburgh are eligible to participate in the activities shown below.

80% off Junior Coaching

At Edinburgh Leisure, we’ve taught generations how to swim, play and build confidence. So as another school year starts, give your child more than a lesson and show them the love of sport with structured coaching that fits around your school routines.

We’re proud to offer 80% off subsidised coaching for children from low income backgrounds with proof of eligibility, thanks to Summer of Sport funding–available into term time until the end of March 2027

Eligibility includes parent/guardian’s receipt of Universal Credit, guaranteed pension credit, Income Support, income based Job Seekers Allowance, income related Employment Support Allowance.

Find a course and apply now.

Discounted Junior Golf Camps

These fun and engaging sessions introduce children aged 5-12 to the fundamentals of golf through exciting games, activities and expert instruction in a friendly, supportive environment. All abilities welcome, no prior experience or equipment needed.

Our next camps take place in September and are available either outdoors at Craigentinny Golf Course or indoors at Drumbrae Leisure Centre.

As part of Summer of Sport, a concession rate of only £8 per four week block is available for children from low-income households. Please contact askus@edinburghleisure.co.uk to enquire about availability. Places are limited with only two subsidised spaces per block are available, so contact us early to secure your spot.

Free 6-Month Casual Swimming Pass

Children from 5 to 15 can enjoy 6 months of free casual swimming if their parent or guardian receives Universal Credit.

A limited number of passes are available, so don’t wait!

Visit your local Edinburgh Leisure venue to register with proof of entitlement. Both the child and parent receiving the entitlement must be present at registration.

Please note: Children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult every time they visit the pool.

Read the full terms and conditions.

Extended Open All Hours Youth Clubs

We’ve expanded our youth Open All Hours programme, offering free evening activities for young people at seven venues across Edinburgh.

With more locations and sessions available, it’s even easier to get active, have fun and connect with others in a safe, welcoming environment.

Free Career Training and Development Placements

Edinburgh Leisure is offering 82 fully funded places at our Aquatics and Lifesaving Academy for young people aged 16-25 not currently in employment, education or training (NEET). They’ll gain nationally recognised qualifications to start a rewarding and fun career in sport and leisure, including:

First Aid

National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)

Scottish Swimming Teacher Qualification (SSTQ)

To find out more as an individual or refer a young person on behalf of an organisation, please contact ata@edinburghleisure.co.uk

Free Football at Meadowbank Sports Centre

Calling all 11 to 18 year olds! Free football sessions are on at Meadowbank Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2nd July to 6th August 13:30 – 15:00.

No need to book–just turn up and play!

These sessions have now ended. Thanks to everyone who showed up and played!

Funded Facility Hire for Edinburgh Sports Clubs

Edinburgh Leisure is inviting Edinburgh-based community sports clubs to apply for fully funded facility hire from August 2026 to March 2027, supported by the 2026 Summer of Sport programme.

Successful clubs can access subsidised venue space and coach funding to launch or grow inclusive junior and grassroots sports activities, helping more people get active across the city.

Due to a high level of interest, applications for this opportunity are now closed.

Summer of Sport Terms and Conditions

Full terms and conditions for all Summer of Sport funded activities can be found here.