Free coaching course develops leaders for the future

Posted on: 21st Jan 2022
Adult Education

Behind every participant at every level in sport is a coach who inspires confidence, belief and cohesion within individuals and groups of people.

Step Up in Coaching is a course which supports Level 1, 2 and 3 coaches – plus those without a formal qualification – to develop skills and take their coaching ability to the next level.

Graduates earn a Level 2 qualification and – best of all – it’s free to anyone living in Oxfordshire, Berkshire or Surrey! Our latest blog explains more about the course and its benefits.

Why Step Up in Coaching?

Step Up in Coaching is a great introduction for coaches in any sport considering progressing from Level 1 to Level 2.

The course teaches new practice ideas, tools to observe and develop individuals or teams, explains how training sessions can be linked with matchdays and supports diet and nutritional advice.

But there are more reasons why people choose to enrol. Our FAQs help explain this further.

  • Who is the course suitable for?

So long as you are aged 19 or older and have an interest or involvement in coaching sport, then Step Up in Coaching is just the course for you.

  • What will I learn?

Step Up in Coaching teaches you new coaching techniques, session planning ideas and supports you in taking your coaching ability to the next level.

  • How long does it last and where does it take place?

Step Up in Coaching is delivered to fit around your lifestyle. As standard, we provide two days of practical and theory workshops as part of the programme.

  • Do I gain a qualification?

Yes, you will! Graduates of Step Up in Coaching receive an industry recognised Level 2 Certificate in Delivering Health Related Activity Sessions.

  • Who delivers the course?

Step Up in Coaching is delivered by UEFA A Licensed FA Coach Educator Justin Merritt and the Ignite Training team.

  • What do graduates say?

Jo Hyams said: “My Step Up in Coaching experience was seamless and organised very efficiently.

“The course was fully flexible, and I was able to work on and submit my portfolio work around my lifestyle with four two-hour Zoom calls scheduled in advance.”

Jonathan Ward said: “The programme really made me think about coaching and how to plan and prepare sessions that are suitable for different age groups at different times of the year.

“The golden nuggets of information I picked up along the way were invaluable.”

Free and flexible education

Jo Hyams decided to enrol onto Step Up in Coaching last year before working towards her FA Level 2 coaching badge.

She coaches Wantage Town Girls U12s and leads a busy lifestyle both at home and professionally. Being able to fit Step Up in Coaching around her commitments at work and home was a key reason why she enrolled.

Jo added: ““The course was fully flexible, and I was able to work on and submit my portfolio work around my lifestyle with four two-hour Zoom calls scheduled in advance.

“I wasn’t ready to step up to FA Level 2 before enrolling, I needed something to progress my CPD (Continuing Professional Development) and improve my knowledge. Step Up in Coaching helped me gain as much additional practical understanding and knowledge possible.”

Developing skills for life

From enrolment to studying and graduation, Step Up in Coaching provided Jo with a “seamless learning experience” throughout.

“For me, it was important I built my confidence in delivering football as swimming is my first passion,” added Jo.

“I know there are better technical coaches out there, but I now have the confidence in knowing what I deliver is correct. It’s great for the parents of the girls I coach too, they see me working hard to develop my skills and it reflects not only well on myself but the club too.

“Step Up in Coaching provides a great progression pathway for any coach looking to add to their skillset regardless of the sport they coach. I’d advise anyone interested to get in touch with the Ignite team.”

Quality tutors

Jonathan Ward is the Managing Director of a construction firm by day, but coaches Cumnor Minors’ U15s Girls’ team on evenings and at weekends.

The father-of-four completed Step Up in Coaching to refresh his coaching skills after earning his FA Level 1 coaching badge.

He said: “It was helpful being able to fit work and family life around the course, the flexibility of Step Up in Coaching really appealed to me.

“The Ignite Training team were always at the end of the phone if I needed support, it was great to work with experienced, qualified and professional tutors. I’d advise anyone considering developing their coaching skills to enrol.”

Sign-up now!

If you’re a sports coach or are looking to break into coaching, why not enrol onto Step Up in Coaching now?

Spaces are available to book between February and July on our website now. The course is run online via a digital platform and starts with an introductory session with one of our tutors.

For further information please email hello@ignitetraining.com.

About Ignite Training

Established in 1999, Ignite’s primary aim is to actively inspire people, and to help create a sense of achievement for everyone. Based in Oxford and operating nationally, we provide a portfolio of training and services to individuals, schools and the sports industry, ranging from weekly clubs for tots to adult courses and apprenticeships.

About Ignite Training