Gulbis Academy and King’s College School Create Latvia’s First Study Program Tailored for Elite Tennis Players
Starting from the 2026/2027 academic year, a specialized education program adapted to the training schedule of elite tennis players will be available in Latvia, developed by King’s College School, Latvia and Gulbis Academy.
King’s College School, Latvia, in partnership with Gulbis Academy founded by Ernests Gulbis, will offer from the 2026/2027 school year the first study program in Latvia tailored for elite tennis players. The program is designed to help young athletes combine intensive training (two sessions per day) with academic studies.
The elite sports program includes an individualized approach to learning subjects, scheduling tests over a longer period considering absences, and specially prepared materials for effective learning both in person and remotely. Students will receive adapted nutrition and access to the school’s sports infrastructure – a swimming pool, sports hall, and gym.
Ernests Gulbis, former professional tennis player and head of Gulbis Academy, notes from personal experience how difficult it is to balance studies with sports. He emphasizes that young athletes are talented and smart, so it is important to help them develop both in sports and academics.
Adele Stanford, director of King’s College School, Latvia, adds that school is a place where children gain social skills and create memories, and this program will prove that it is not necessary to choose between school and professional sports.
Currently, Gulbis Academy training takes place at 150 K. Ulmaņa Street, but from spring 2027 it will move to a new building at 3 Hanzas Street in Piņķi, Mārupe Municipality. Students who start in the elite program will be provided with transportation from the current tennis courts to the school.
The program is intended for children aged 11 and above. Pupils will study under the British IGCSE system, and in the final two years, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
