How to create a thriving learning environment
For a thriving learning environment, start by getting to know your players. Why are they there? What motivates them? What do they enjoy? Tailor your sessions to match their interests and needs.
All the while, you need to make the environment feel safe. That means players aren’t scared of what will happen if they mess up. Here are some tips:
- Focus on ‘connection over correction.’ Build strong relationships and don’t make a big deal of every mistake.
- Be positive and praise players genuinely, even when they don’t succeed.
- Lead by example. Build trust by behaving how you want your players to act, especially when reacting to mistakes.
- Take accountability and admit when you could have done something better as a coach.
- Keep your energy high. Show passion and enthusiasm. It will be reflected by your team.
Finally, put the power in the hands of your players. Get them to solve their own problems when you can. For instance, create practices that get them to find their own way to the session objective. Or, when something goes wrong, ask what they could do differently next time.
What does a thriving learning environment look like at training?
For a thriving learning environment, training should look and feel like the actual game. After all, players are there because they love playing football.
It doesn’t need to be complicated. Here are some ideas:
- Include practices that get players scoring and stopping goals.
- Have players work on the same things they’ll do on matchday but with lots of repetition.
- Explain how what you’re working on connects to the game.
- Ask your players what they enjoy most and give them plenty of chances to practise those things.
What does a thriving learning environment look like on matchday?
On matchday, the environment should be fun and get across the same messages as training.
To achieve this, rethink what success means. It’s not just about winning or losing the match. Success can be seeing something you've worked on in training show up in the game.
And if it doesn’t happen, don’t worry. There's always next week to try again.
In grassroots football, inclusivity is especially important. Make sure everyone gets a chance to play across the season. No matter where a player is in their learning journey, they need the opportunity to play the game.
How to create an environment for everyone
Your players are all unique. They’ve been playing football for different periods of time. And they each have their own skills and interests.
Account for this when planning your sessions. Think of ways to tailor training to provide your players with the challenges they need to face. Reflect on how much repetition your activities offer. And think about how who they play with and against can help.
To plan effectively, you need to truly understand your players. That takes time. So, take a step back and observe whenever you can. Ask them questions:
- How do you think you’re doing?
- What do you want to get better at?
- What are your super strengths?
Use this information to coach each player as an individual. And don't just ask once – keep checking in regularly.
What to consider when working with different age groups
A thriving learning environment is fun, no matter the players' age. But this is especially crucial for the youngest teams. The goal is simple: get them touching the ball as much as possible and excited to return next week.
As players get older, it's vital to keep up their love for the game. Then you can start layering things on top, like tactics and strategies. Keep asking what your players need and want to get out of the game.
And know what to expect at the level you’re coaching. Become an expert in what the game looks like for your specific group.
Things to remember to help you create a thriving learning environment
