How do I get into coaching?
The entry point to coaching is becoming involved at an assistant level, and to have responsibility for the delivery of coaching activities under the direct supervision of a more qualified coach. As you get more involved with a club or organisation you may wish to take a Level 1 and then a Level 2 and Level 3 qualification. These are accessible to anyone and normally first accessed through the National Governing Body (NGB) website.
These qualifications will give you a far greater understanding of technical, tactical, and physiological aspects associated with your sport, and learn skills that will help you develop your competence and identify areas of improvement.
What type of courses will I have to do to get my qualifications?
If you are looking to lead the coaching at a session, then the minimum qualification is a level 2 or equivalent that is delivered by the governing body of that sport plus safeguarding and first aid. For example, The FA for Football A level 1 or an equivalent will allow you to start actively supporting sessions as an assistant.
With the qualification could I use it to create a sports team/session?
There is no specific qualification outside of the ones mentioned above that allows you to start up a sports team however there is guidance from each NGB (National Governing Body). We have a list of contacts for each sport in Kent here.
After completing my qualification how can I keep learning?
As a coach and leader, it is important that we continue to learn and develop ourselves so that we can keep providing positive experiences for our participants. Short Continued Professional Development (CPD) courses provided by organisations such as UK Coaching develop your skills to help you deliver excellent and inspiring coaching sessions to people from all walks of life. CPD sessions are delivered in various formats including:
- E learning
- Online Classrooms
- Face to Face Workshops
- Live Webinars
Through to digital badges which will serve as evidence of your continuing professional development and is an indication of your commitment to great coaching.
As a coach, what else will I need?
Most paid coaching roles are self-employed to start with which means coaches will have their own: Public Liability Insurance, First aid qualification, complete Safeguarding Training, complete a DBS and set up for self-assessment tax. Your organisation will be able to guide you through all the above.
If you are volunteering at an organisation, you will be often covered by their insurances and policies. DBS costs will also usually be covered always check with them to ensure you are equipped to deliver the role that you have been placed in.