National recognition for student athlete support

The accreditation recognises Solent's continued commitment to helping student-athletes balance their academic studies with the demands of high level competition through its Sport Excellence Programme (SEP).

Backed by Sport England, TASS supports young people on the talent pathway by enabling them to gain qualifications alongside their sporting pursuits, while also encouraging personal development and broader interests. The TASS Dual Career Accreditation Scheme formally recognises colleges and universities that provide the flexibility and support athletes need to thrive both in the classroom and in competition.

At Solent, this commitment is delivered through the SEP, which supports some of the region's most promising student athletes across a wide range of sports.

The programme provides a tailored package of support including financial assistance, access to high-performance coaching and facilities, strength and conditioning provision, sport science services, performance lifestyle support, and academic flexibility to help students manage the demands of elite-level sport alongside their studies.

The University recently welcomed another strong Sport Excellence Programme cohort for 2026/27, with student-athletes representing sports including football, sailing, muay-thai, fencing, basketball, rugby, cycling and many more. The programme is designed to ensure talented athletes can maximise their sporting potential while gaining the qualifications and career-ready skills needed for future success.

Iain Molyneux, Sports Education Partnership Manager at Solent, said:

"We are incredibly proud to have retained our TASS Dual Career Accreditation. This recognition highlights the importance we place on supporting talented athletes to achieve success both academically and within their sport.

"At Solent, we understand the challenges that come with balancing elite performance and higher education. Through our Sport Excellence Programme, we are committed to providing the environment, resources and flexibility that enable student-athletes to excel in both areas and prepare for successful careers beyond sport."

TASS National Director, Guy Taylor, said:

"We're delighted to be awarding TASS Dual Career Accreditation to colleges and universities across England.

"Dual career support is at the forefront of what TASS does and that's why the Accreditation Scheme is so important for us in recognising those institutions who place precedence on their athletes' education too.

"We hope that the academic flexibility policies put into place for the Accreditation will begin to develop an effective and lasting dual career structure within each institution.

"Congratulations to the successful institutions and we look forward to working alongside many more outstanding colleges and universities in the near future."

The reaccreditation further strengthens Solent's reputation as a leading university for sport, supporting student-athletes to achieve excellence in competition while developing the knowledge, skills and experience needed for life after sport.