Midlothian Athletics Development Plan 2018-23

Midlothian Council in conjunction with Scottish Athletics and Lasswade Athletics Club have a five year plan for the sport.

The vision for athletics in Midlothian is a simple one and supports that of the national governing body, scottishathletics: increase the number of people participating in the sport at all levels and improve the performance of those with talent and aptitude to do so.

We also recognise the importance of the Midlothian Physical Activity, Health and Sport Strategy 2018 – 2023 and wider Scottish Government and sportscotland objectives – many of which are common to our plan in developing athletics across Midlothian. To fulfil this vision in Midlothian the core priorities for athletics development are:

• Pathways (including Curriculum athletics, School Competition and Extra Curricular (especially Lasswade AC Future Stars Athletics Program
• Club development
• Workforce Development including Coach Education and Development
• Competition
• Communication
• Facilities – access and development

In summary between 2018 to 2023 the Midlothian Athletics Development Group will aim to:

• Ensure the athletics pathway in Midlothian is transparent, communicated and allows athletes to progress at whatever stage of development;
• Increase membership – both club members and recreational runners – by a further 50% ensuring clubs and groups have strong and modern infrastructures to support this growth;
• Enhance opportunities for athletes to take part in athletics at School – through competition, curricular and extra-curricular activity – with opportunities to progress into a structured athletics pathway;
• Focus on developing the athletics workforce in Midlothian to support the projected growth in participation – including coaches, officials, committee members and leaders, wider volunteers, teachers and young leaders.
• Work with partners to improve and enhance athletics facilities within Midlothian – at Dalkeith Campus and at other identified sites;

Please find the plan attached below for your information