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.
*independent coaching for the legal age of responsibility in the UK is 18.
What can I do once qualified as an Activity Coach?
You will be able to independently deliver safe, positive and inclusive coaching activities to support riders to engage in cycling in your chosen discipline.
You will deliver foundation skills and techniques in the discipline.
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 course is a 6 week programme, with a blend of e-learning units to work through independently, followed by some virtual seminars with short tasks to complete. There is a final practical coaching development day at a discipline specific venue for you to apply your knowledge in a practical coaching day.
| Weeks 1-2 | E-learning | Self-directed learning |
| Weeks 3-5 | Virtual seminars (3 evenings) | Tutor-led discussions with some short tasks |
| Week 6 | Practical coaching development day | Practical application to coaching - considering play and rider/coach led approaches |
How will I be assessed?
You are required to complete all components of the course, e-learning, seminar attendance and participation in discussions, and coaching on the face to face day.
As part of a formative assessment the tutor will support with you throughout your learning experience to make a formative assessment of your level of competence and understanding.
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
How much does it cost?
The price varies depending on which discipline is undertaken, please visit the discipline specific course pages on the navigation.
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.
Access the full learner guide here
Roles and remits for Introduction to Coaching
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.
NB. Bursaries cannot be used in conjunction with any courses highlighted as '(Provider)'.
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Contact us
Tel: 0161 274 2060
