St Andrews Links Trust Launches Schools Programme in 2025
The St Andrews Links schools programme launched in September 2025 has attracted almost 100 children, with a further 60 pupils on waiting lists.
Female participation reached 44%, including a dedicated girls’ group at Madras College.
The initiative delivers after-school golf sessions directly on school grounds across Greyfriars, Canongate and Lawhead primary schools, plus Madras College secondary school.
Six weekly sessions introduce children to putting, chipping, and long game instruction, using adaptive equipment and fun games. Many participants had never held a golf club before joining.
Community Champions Lead After-School Sessions
Community Champions deliver the junior golf St Andrews programme. These specially trained St Andrews Links Trust staff members run sessions on school grounds, removing barriers for children trying golf for the first time in a familiar environment.
The approach focuses on creating an enjoyable first experience. Sessions complement the established St Andrews Links Junior Golf Programme (SALJGA).
Laurie Watson, Director of Engagement at St Andrews Links Trust, said:
Our aim is to provide an opportunity for every child in St Andrews to experience the sport in a way that feels enjoyable, welcoming, and relevant to them.
Additional activities include design and colouring competitions. The Playground Cup, planned for spring 2026 at the St Andrews Links Golf Academy and Balgove Course, will offer participants an on-course experience.
A Design a Pin Flag project invites pupils to create designs inspired by “What I love about St Andrews.” Winning entries will be displayed on-course at the Home of Golf.
First Green Field Trips Connect Golf with STEM Learning
Primary school classes visit St Andrews Links for First Green field trips. These sessions explore how greenkeepers and West Sands Rangers use science and technology in daily operations.
Pupils learn about irrigation systems, machinery, local wildlife, and habitats. The field trips include demonstrations of bunker raking and hole changing. Sessions conclude with golf lessons at the Academy, connecting golf for children Scotland with curriculum elements.
Seven students completed work experience placements across greenkeeping and retail departments in 2025.
The St Andrews Links Trust plans to expand placements to additional departments. These hands-on experiences provide insight into careers at one of golf’s most recognised venues.
Spring 2026 Programme Expansion Planned
Watson added: “Whether they become golfers, pursue new interests through STEM learning, or simply enjoy a new experience at the Home of Golf, this programme is about creating opportunities for young people.”
The response from schools, families and pupils has been positive. The Trust will run a second block of the St Andrews Links schools programme in spring 2026 following the inaugural term’s success across all four schools.
