Elite Sports Performance Scheme (ESPS)

The University of Sheffield's ESPS is designed to empower elite athletes like you. We provide a unique support system to help you flourish on the field and in the classroom.

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About

The Elite Sports Performance Scheme (ESPS) aims to help elite level athletes at the University of Sheffield maintain their sporting success alongside their course.

All ESPS athletes receive:

  • Strength and Conditioning Coaching: Train with our expert coaches to maximise your performance.

  • Physiotherapy: Maintain peak physical condition with free access to on-site physiotherapy and massage services.

  • Lifestyle Mentoring: Get expert advice on nutrition and psychology to optimise your training and well-being.

  • Peak S10health Gym Membership: Train in state-of-the-art facilities with your free gym membership.

Catalyst Athletes Receive Additional Benefits:

  • Free Accommodation: Focus on your goals with free housing for one year (restrictions apply).

Level 2 Athletes Receive Additional Benefits:

  • £1,000 Annual Award: Invest in your training and development.

Eligibility

The scheme is open to current students continuing their course in 2026 and undergraduate and postgraduate applicants starting a course in September 2026. If you are an applicant, you must have received an offer to study at the University of Sheffield starting in September 2026 in order to apply.

Below are the eligibility guidelines for the scholarship.

Level 2:

  • Senior or Top Junior International Athletes (GB or equivalent)

  • TASS Athletes (GB or equivalent)

  • Elite Category Road Cyclists (for at least 12 months)

Level 1:

  • International/National Representatives (GB, England, etc.)

  • Professional, Semi-Professional, or High-Level Academy Athletes (examples provided)

  • Athletes on GB Development Pathways

  • High-Level County Athletes (Sport Dependent)

  • TASS Athletes

Please note: these are guidelines. Representing GB or equivalent is not a guaranteed Level 2 placement. All ESPS athletes are expected to represent the University of Sheffield whenever possible.

How to apply

Applications are now open for 2026-27 entry. 

Apply to the Elite Sports Performance Scheme (ESPS)

The deadline to apply is 1pm on Monday 29 June 2026.

To access the application form, you will need to use your MUSE for applicants login details (these will be sent to you shortly after you receive your course offer) or your current MUSE login details if you are a current student.

Selection process

A selection panel consisting of senior University of Sheffield Sport and Physical Activity staff, Professional Service colleagues, and Students' Union representatives will consider all applications.

Further information

  • You must be starting or continuing on a course at the University of Sheffield from September 2026 and be fully registered on a course to receive the award.
  • Students studying by distance learning are not eligible to apply.
  • If you withdraw from the University, part or all of the scholarship may be repayable and you will not be eligible to apply to the scheme again in future years.
  • If you take a period of leave of absence, your scholarship will be suspended.
  • To enquire about suitability to apply for the Elite Sports Performance Scheme or any other questions relating to Performance Sport please contact one of our Club and Performance Sport Officers via performance-sport@sheffield.ac.uk.

Our scheme is also funded entirely through donations and partners. To discuss a donation please contact David Meadows, Development Officer – Legacies and Individual Giving via telephone on 0114 222 1073 or email through d.meadows@sheffield.ac.uk

ESPS Alumni

The ESPS has included many sporting stars over the years including:

  • Bryony Paige (Trampoline Olympian)
  • Hollie Pearne-Webb (Field Hockey Olympian)
  • David Wetherill (Table Tennis Paralympian)
  • Jazmin Sawyers (Long Jump Commonwealth Games medalist)
  • Nicole Lamb (Rowing World University Games and GB Pathway)