Applications for the JudoScotland Senpai Programme are now open. 

After a successful inaugural year in 2024, the Senpai Programme is back for 2025 looking to engage a new cohort of young people. 

The Senpai Programme is an initiative that has been designed to empower young people within judo clubs in Scotland. The aim of the programme is to support our young members aged 16 –24 in building skills and gaining experience, equipping them to tackle challenges both within and beyond our sport. 

Participants will have the opportunity to learn new skills, gain greater self-confidence in their knowledge and abilities, and network with other like-minded judoka to develop Judo in Scotland.   

During the programme participants will have the opportunity to attend educational workshops delivered by Scottish Sports Futures and Scottish Disability Sport. These workshops are designed to help Senpai participants develop skills for them to take on self-determined responsibilities and challenges.   

Senpai is all about developing young individuals through a formal learning process to lead within their judo club and complete a project. Applicants are encouraged to think about a potential role or project they would like to undertake at their club which they will be supported with during their time on the programme.  

The 2024 Senpai Programme partcipants

JudoScotland Senpai Programme Lead, Sam Ingram said: “The Senpai Programme offers learning opportunities for young people to develop their skills and provide guidance as they undertake various projects to help support their judo club.   

“If you are aged between 16-24 years old and are interested in playing a more active role in your judo club or in the wider judo community, we want to hear from you.  

“We are excited to welcome another group of young people into the programme and support them through their learning and projects to become young leaders in the judo community.”  

The application period runs from Friday 31st January to Friday 21st February. Following the closing date, applications will be shortlisted by an internal JudoScotland panel and invited to attend an online interview. 

Anyone who wishes to apply for the Senpai Programme should fill out the application form. It should take about 20-30 minutes to complete. Please head to the Senpai Programme webpage on the JudoScotland website for more information.  

We actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups, recognising the importance of different perspectives in shaping the next generation of young leaders. If you are having any issues completing the application, please contact Sam Ingram on samuelingram@judoscotland.com