Enderby Lawn Tennis Club
- Tennis Leicestershire
- Oct 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 11
Creating Safe Spaces: Tennis for Adult Learners with SEND
Type of programme
Enderby Lawn Tennis Club runs weekly sessions for adults and young people with a range of disabilities, working closely with the local Adult Education Centre and a SEND school. The aim is to provide safe, enjoyable and structured opportunities for participants to be active, social and confident through tennis. The programme grew out of a desire to repurpose volunteer time after an earlier “social prescribing” initiative proved less effective post-Covid. It has now become a core part of the club’s community activity, delivered term-time and well-supported by local partners.
Example activities
Sessions take place weekly during term time, each lasting an hour and involving up to eight participants from the Adult Education Centre. The sessions begin and end with warm-ups and cool-downs, with games and exercises that focus on coordination, communication, teamwork and racket skills. Each activity is adapted to meet individual needs, with volunteers providing one-to-one support where required.
A second session, developed with a local SEND school, is led by the club coach and supported by volunteers. Up to twelve students attend weekly, benefiting from expert coaching and an inclusive environment where they can build self-esteem, confidence and enjoyment of sport. Teachers have described the sessions as “a massive success,” particularly for children who have struggled to access clubs or unfamiliar coaches before.
What works
The programme’s strength lies in its adaptability and collaborative approach. Partnering with the Adult Education Centre and local school has ensured regular attendance and continuity. Sessions are carefully tailored to meet diverse needs, with strong volunteer involvement and clear communication with support staff. Funding from the LTA, Tennis Leicestershire and the Leicestershire & Rutland Community Foundation has been crucial in maintaining free access, while the club’s positive, “can do” culture keeps momentum strong.
Participants have shown improvements in coordination, confidence and fitness, and teachers have observed a lasting belief that they can participate in sport beyond school or formal settings.
What we have learnt
The club recognises that not every session runs smoothly. Attendance can fluctuate depending on individual needs and transport logistics, and volunteers must continually adapt to different abilities. Sustaining funding and maintaining volunteer energy are ongoing challenges. The club is also exploring ways to expand provision, such as introducing Walking Tennis, to cater to members who would benefit from slower-paced formats.