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Coach Development Group
Initiative

Coach Development Group

This programme offers bespoke support for coaches seeking to work within the talent pathway.

Initiative Overview

Introduction to Coaching Football

Course type:

Initiative

Duration:

12 months

About the programme

At the top levels the game, coaches from female, Black, Asian and ethnically diverse backgrounds continue to be significantly underrepresented within key positions. 

England Football Learning is committed to changing that. Our Coach Development Group is a targeted, positive action initiative designed to give coaches working in the talent development pathway in the boy's game or within Steps 1-4 of the men's National League System the opportunity to gain invaluable experience and support as they develop their skills and work towards a career in the professional game.  

From in-situ support to online mentors, development action plans, visits to St. George’s Park and a national online webinar in developing skilful players, the 30 successful applicants will receive a blended learning and development experience, with personalised and connected support from our expert Coach Mentors.

By introducing programmes like this group, we aim to create more opportunities for coaches from Black, Asian, ethnically diverse and female backgrounds, actively addressing the ongoing issue of underrepresentation in football.

Participants will also be given the opportunity to learn more about the UEFA A Licence and Advanced Youth Award. They will be given the opportunity to meet tutors from the course, and see for themselves exactly what is involved, and how to prepare for either of these learning and development opportunities.

 

Application Criteria

To apply for the Coach Development Group, you must meet the following criteria:

 

-You have already achieved the UEFA B Licence.

 

-You are a coach who identifies as female and/or from a Black, Asian or ethnically diverse background

-You are currently working in the talent development pathway within the boys game at a professional academy OR you are working at a club in Step 1-4 of the National League System (Find out more about clubs in  Steps 1-4).

Find out more about the Coach Development Group

One of the key challenges for aspirational, intentional coaches from historically underrepresented backgrounds is access to new opportunities to continue their development . The aim of this group is to offer an exclusive insight into the next step in their learning and development and coaching journey. 

Butch Fazal, Programme-lead