Bridge is both a lot of fun and a fantastic education for young people, providing a unique combination of competition, co-operation and mental exercise. There are opportunities to learn the game at school, play at university, and in competitions (under 26s are considered Juniors in bridge).
Bridge for children and young people
The National Schools Championship will take place at Loughborough Grammar School on 28th February 2026, register here.
Few things combine fun and learning as well as bridge. Schools appreciate it because it teaches useful skills: mathematics, cooperation, probability, concentration, memory, and more. Young people love the social opportunities of a bridge weekend or simply playing with friends. Competitive bridge is a joy at any age: every hand is different and once someone can play, they will never be bored again.
How can I or my child learn bridge?
EBED runs an online after-school bridge club every Thursday 4.15pm-6-15pm, strictly for young players (up to Year 13). These are weekly drop-in sessions (can join with a partner or not), no experience needed, and is the best way to start playing from a standing start. Sign up here!
Additionally, visit EBED's website for details of its three Junior bridge camps (3x per year in Autumn, Spring, and Summer). Check the Bridge4Schools site for a live roster of bridge events for youth & a list of bridge-playing schools, and you can also use our Find a teacher service, being sure to check the box for under 18. Or, simply reach out to the EBED team and they will be able to get you started.
Many counties have a youth officer who is the point of contact for local opportunities and these are listed here.
What competitions are available for young people?
There is an inter-schools competition called the National Schools Championship; an inter-schools bridge league; a youth bridge Grand Prix online and at the junior bridge camps.
The Portland Bowl is a competition for universities and higher education institutions.
Young players are also welcome at our clubs and online bridge sessions - though for face to face sessions with those under 18 please check with the club beforehand to ensure conformance to safeguarding policies.
How can I support youth bridge?
English Bridge and Development is a charity supporting youth bridge and welcomes donations. For more direct support, New Tricks is a charity which teaches bridge in schools and needs funding to support teachers. Youth internationals need funding for the considerable expense of overseas events and you can support them here.
Social media & Community
Connect, Socialise and Share. Bridge is a unique mind sport, because of the social and partnership elements.
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