Start learning in your discipline right from the start of your coaching journey in our Introduction to Coaching course.
On completion of this course, you'll be given the role of Activity Coach and will be able to independently deliver cycling activities in the discipline environment or in a generic/non-discipline environment according to your chosen option.
As the first step on your coaching journey, the learning is designed to support you to gain a basic understanding of coaching, and a range of skills to feel confident to facilitate basic discipline specific coaching activity in your own context. The learning will require you to engage with online content, including technique videos, interacting with e-learning activities, as well as contributing to discussion in seminars, and taking part in practical coaching activities on the development day with your peers.
What will I learn?
This module will introduce you to a number of basic coaching approaches, skills and behaviours to get you started, and to lay the foundations for further development throughout the Coach Award. A prepare-do-reflect model provides the steps to follow, to take you through the coaching process. This is brought to life by thinking about who you coach, what you coach, and how you coach. You won’t be given one “best way” to coach, but will be encouraged to discover what works best for you and for the riders you coach.
The module starts to explore some of the themes you need to begin thinking about in order to meet the needs of the riders you support - rider engagement, creating inclusive and safe environments for everyone (both physical risk and under the broad definition of Duty of Care), and reflection (in, on and for action).
You will have the opportunity to explore these concepts and ideas, and to try them out in a practical way, during the small-group interactive seminars and Development Day.
What is the structure of the course and how long will it take?
The learning experience is a blend of online and face-to-face learning, supported by mentoring from your course tutor throughout.
It includes:
- Online learning - 2 hours
- 3 x 1 hour 15 minutes online seminars each with a 15-minute task
- 1 face-to-face discipline specific development day
This blended learning will take place across a period of 4 weeks and includes 2 weeks access to online learning prior to your first seminar.
How will I be assessed?
You are required to complete all components of the course, attending all seminars and the face to face day, as well as completing all units of the e-learning content.
Rather than completing an end-of-learning assessment task, the tutor will ensure that they check in with you throughout your learning experience to make a formative assessment of your level of competence and understanding.
How much does it cost?
Between £110-£210 depending on the discipline - the variations account for differing venue costs:
Cycle Speedway - £110
Multi-Discipline, BMX Freestyle, BMX Race, Road and Off-Road - £185
Track - £210
Funding maybe available to support with course costs. Check out our Funding & Bursaries page for more.
Please note that safeguarding and first aid are not included in the course cost, however, first aid is only required if you independently delivering coached activities. Check out our First Aid page for more. If you want to operate under British Cycling insurance then you'll need to have a paid membership, current safeguarding and first aid.
What do I need to register?
- Be registered with British Cycling - this is free. If you would like to be insured under British Cycling's Insurance for Coaches, Leaders and Instructors once qualified you will need to join as a Member.
- Be at least 14 years of age (restrictions apply to legal age of responsibility – see webpage for more info)
- Have access to a computer and the internet
Please note online booking closes 2 weeks before access to online learning begins
The role of Activity Coach – what can I do as a result of this course?
You will be able to independently deliver safe, positive and inclusive coached activities to support riders to engage in cycling (in your chosen discipline) and develop their skills through enjoyable and challenging activities and games.
Access the full learner guide here
Roles and remits for Introduction to Coaching
Introduction to Coaching flyer
Upcoming Courses
If there is no course available nearby, please complete our short form to express interest. This will help us to plan for future courses and let you know when a nearby date has been added.
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Tel: 0161 274 2060
