Academy | KJT

KJT Academy

Supported by the LFC Foundation

The KJT Academy was originally founded in 2020 when Katarina Johnson-Thompson, preparing for the Tokyo Olympics, decided to use the unexpected pause in competition to give back to the community that raised her.

Now relaunching in 2025, the KJT Academy will offer targeted support to two groups of young athletes:

Young people aged 16–20 from disadvantaged backgrounds across the North West of England, competing in any sport
Young multi-event athletes (heptathletes and decathletes) from across the UK

With support from Nike, the LFC Foundation, and other key partners, the Academy is committed to levelling the playing field—providing financial and value-in-kind support to those who need it most, at a crucial stage in their athletic development.

Inspired by Kat’s own journey, the KJT Academy also offers access to expert guidance, inspirational events, and behind-the-scenes insight into life as an elite athlete.

To follow the journey, head to @KJTAcademy on Instagram. To get involved as an athlete, partner or supporter, keep reading below.

Getting involved

Athletes

The KJT Academy is now open for applications for its 2025 intake, offering two tiers of support to young athletes who show talent, ambition, and the need for additional backing to pursue their sporting goals.

We’re supporting:

Young athletes (aged 16–20) from the North West of England competing in any sport and facing financial or structural barriers
Young multi-event athletes (heptathletes and decathletes) from across the UK, who require additional support to progress

Academy support runs for 12 months and includes two tiers:

Kit Support Tier – Up to 30 athletes will receive Nike products valued at up to £1,000
Financial Support Tier – Up to 10 athletes will receive financial support for expenses (up to £1,000)

All Academy athletes will also be invited to two exclusive development days hosted by Katarina Johnson-Thompson:

A Spring Inspiration Day at Kat’s training base in Loughborough or Liverpool
An Autumn Insights Day hosted with Liverpool Football Club Foundation, offering behind-the-scenes access to elite sporting environments

Photo credit – Neil Bedford for Stylist

How To Apply

Applications should be submitted via Instagram DM or email (info@summussports.com) and must include the following information:

Full Name
Date of Birth
Sport / Event
Location
High Achievement to date
Two focus goals/events for 2025
Reason you’re applying for support
Reference from a coach or teacher
Instagram handle (if applicable)

Eligibility Criteria

Aged 16–20 on 31st March 2025
From a disadvantaged background (for North West applicants)
Competing in multi-events (for national applicants)
Please note: Men’s football is not eligible for this programme

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