Young people across Portsmouth are set to serve up some fun this spring as Shuttle Stars, a brand‑new junior badminton development programme, launches at Charter Community Sports Centre.

Shuttle Stars is Badminton England’s official junior pathway, created especially for children aged 7–11. The programme introduces young players to badminton through fast‑paced, games-based learning that builds skills, confidence, coordination, and a genuine love for the sport in a friendly, supportive setting.

Designed as a clear and exciting development journey, the Shuttle Stars Pathway guides children from their very first swing to feeling confident in match‑play situations, with no previous experience needed.

Delivered by qualified BH Live Active coaches, courses will launch on Friday 27 February 2026. Course sessions will take place every Friday from 5pm–6pm and are available in five or six‑week blocks (in line with term-time). For booking and further details, visit bhliveactive.org.uk/shuttle-stars. .

The launch of Shuttle Stars marks another important milestone for BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise committed to helping young people across the South Coast discover new sports, get active, and build healthy habits that last a lifetime.

BH Live Active already supports thousands of young people each week through its popular junior programmes; including its Swimming Academy, which teaches more than 2,200 learners every week; Portsmouth Tennis Centre’s Aces Tennis Academy, and a wide range of pre‑school and junior gymnastics courses at Portsmouth Gymnastics Centre.

On behalf of BH Live, Bobby Cole, Group Swim & Junior Activities Manager, said:

“Shuttle Stars is a fantastic opportunity for children in Portsmouth to discover a new sport in a fun, confidence-building environment. We’re passionate about giving young people the chance to be active, learn new skills, make friends, and feel part of a supportive community. We can’t wait to welcome our first group of young players to Charter Community Sports Centre.”

Cllr Lee Hunt, Portsmouth City Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Leisure & Sport said:

“It’s great to see Shuttle Stars being introduced for youngsters in the city. Supporting healthy lifestyles and promoting positive physical activity is really important to us, and helping children get involved from a young age brings huge benefits. Thank you to BH Live for offering this opportunity.”

BH Live also offers a wide range of junior and family group exercise classes, attractions, and activities designed to help families stay active and have fun together. Timetables and further information are available at bhliveactive.org.uk.

Just five minutes from Portsmouth city centre, Charter Community Sports Centre provides access to swimming, a fully equipped gym, group exercise classes, sports hall activities, and an outdoor multi‑use games area. Learn more at bhliveactive.org.uk/charter.