2026 Junior Surf Series

Four stops with more back-up dates: Less chance of cancellations and more waves to surf

Qualification opportunities: Top performances now feed into the pathway to the English National Surfing Championships. See more information about the English National surfing championships here.

Consistent judging: All events led by an experienced Head Judge, giving clear feedback and learning opportunities

Community-driven improvements: Registration, scheduling, and judging processes updated based on feedback

Read the consultation feedback here to see how your ideas shaped the series!

What Stays the Same

Partnership with surf clubs: Our host clubs still receive one-third of spaces for their members

Friendly atmosphere: Fun beach vibes, treasure hunts, and volunteer opportunities remain central

Support for developing clubs: Grants for equipment and help to run local competitions will continue

Aspiration to run priority: For U14s wherever possible

The Junior Surf Series is more than just competition, it’s a community. Every event is designed to be:

Inclusive and fun – beach games, and volunteering opportunities for club members

Supportive – beginners and seasoned surfers alike are encouraged to compete/test their skills. Community focused – working closely with surf clubs to create memorable experiences for young surfers

What if my child can’t get a place on a Junior Surf Series event?

Demand remains high, and we continue to refine registration to make access as fair as possible. In 2026, the first stop will use a ballot system, giving everyone an equal chance of securing a place.

For subsequent stops, a priority system will apply—surfers who registered but missed out on a space at the previous event will be prioritised for the next one.

What if a Junior Surf Series stop doesn’t run on its planned or back-up dates?

We’ve added more back-up dates to reduce the likelihood of cancellations. If a stop is unable to run, the qualification places from that event will automatically convert into wildcard places for the English National Surfing Championships.

What if someone who has already qualified for the National Championships finishes 1st or 2nd again later in the series?

The qualification place will automatically transfer to the next highest-placed surfer at that event (for example, 3rd place up to 6^th place where it then becomes the selection panels discretion to award 7^th, etc, or add another Wildcard).

Can my child still qualify for the National Championships if they don’t finish 1st or 2nd?

Yes. Half of the National Championship places are available outside the Junior Surf Series route via Wildcard. Strong JSS performances can support a wildcard application.

Contact information:

If you have any questions at all please feel free to get in contact with Max, max@surfingengland.org