Our exciting new Coach Development Programme started this month, with almost 80 coaches attending the first three events.

Complementing the formal FA qualification pathway, the programme is designed to offer valuable face-to-face learning experiences for grassroots coaches. Recent workshops in Chelmsford, Colchester and Wickford have seen coaches from over 40 different clubs benefit from practical ‘On the Pitch’ ideas, brought to life by Essex County FA Coach Developers.

Our Coach Education Team have been pleased with attendee feedback so far, with many highlighting the benefits of networking with coaches from other clubs, seeing practical ideas brought to life and interacting with experienced Coach Developers and County FA staff.

There are plenty more opportunities for coaches to access support countywide, through various workshops to suit those working with players of all ages and abilities. Dates are currently available until the end of October and can be found here.

New FA Coaching Pathway

A brief overview of recent changes to the FA coaching qualification pathway is detailed below, as well as links to useful coaching resources:

BT Playmaker by England Football (New for 2021)

This free, online course is perfect for anyone interested in taking a more active role in grassroots football. Full details can be found here.

Please Note: coaches must complete this course before beginning the Introduction to Coaching Football Course.

Introduction to Coaching Football (New for 2021)

Replacing the FA Level 1 in Coaching Football, this course is completed entirely online. The course blends live weekly webinars, e-learning, community support and a range of resources to provide coaches with the skills to coach players of all ages. Dates are now available here.

FA Level 2 in Coaching Football (Coming Soon)

This course is currently under review and will be replaced with a new qualification in early 2022. Further updates are expected from FA Education (now England Football Learning) very soon, detailing the course’s duration, format, content and timescales for learners to enrol.

FA Level 3 (UEFA ‘B’) in Coaching Football (Coming Soon)

All future UEFA ‘B’ courses will be delivered by FA Education (now England Football Learning). Further updates are expected in due course.

Safeguarding Children Course* (New for 2021)

This online training module replaces the Safeguarding Children Workshop. Full details can be found here.

Introduction to First Aid in Football (IFAiF)* (New for 2021)

The Introduction to First Aid in Football is now an online course. This is for new coaches, or those wishing to renew their qualification. Full details can be found here.

Please Note: the new Introduction to Coaching Football Course includes both the Safeguarding Children Course and the Introduction to First Aid in Football.

Disability Football Introduction (New for 2021)

This free, online learning module examines how to support individuals, whatever their ability level. Access the module here.

It is also recommended to visit the England Football Learning YouTube channel, which contains a wide variety of ideas to support coaches in their role, as well as our own channel, with playlists dedicated to coaching content. Information can also be found by following @EssexCountyFA on Twitter and by searching for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.

Useful Links: Coaches can manage their qualifications and access further learning opportunities via The FA’s ‘My Account’ section. There’s also a huge range of coaching resources, session ideas and top tips available via The Boot Room here.

Here, coaches can search for information specific to the age group they coach, helping them and their players to continue learning. The new community section also allows coaches to join the conversation and interact with a team of coach developers.