Approach
We worked with the Bowls Development Alliance (BDA) to assist them with the implementation of their new 1st4sport Level 2 Certificate in Coaching Bowls qualification.
Summary
We worked with the BDA to identify course and workforce requirements for the new 1st4Sport level 2 qualification. On becoming a recognised centre, we developed the appropriate administration processes and quality assurance practices to support the qualification and the needs of the sport. Further support is now being offered in the form of recognising prior learning to established coaches which aim to undertake the qualification. Additionally, the workforce undertook non accredited assessor training which was mapped to national standards.
Outcome
The first course took place in Melton Mowbray in April 2013 with the course being fully subscribed with a mix of coaches and senior tutors from the Midlands and South of England. Course delivery involved a mixture of theory and practical elements taking into consideration different learning needs.
What the learners had to say:
"It was easy to book on to this course. I booked on to it because I wanted to become a better bowls coach and believed that the amount of work that had been put into designing this course would mean that it would cover a very wide area, I was correct. The course design was very well structured and the documentation supported the classes effectively. It did require more work than I had anticipated, but it was well balanced, interesting, and fun, and the lectures both supported the handbook, and were supported by other documentation that we received, as the course proceeded. The illustrations in the handbook were clear and attractive, and mirrored the content of the workshops. I had no difficulty at all in following the instructions, and I learned a great deal from all the sections. I am confident that I will be a better Level 2 Coach for having completed this course and am delighted to have been declared competent!!! This will undoubtedly be to my personal benefit. However, more importantly, I believe it will be to the benefit of those who I will coach in the future."
Diana Tribe - Bowls Level 2 Coach
"I felt I needed to do the course myself before tutoring it. It gives me the opportunity to persuade potential bowlers to become coaches through this course and be able to assist them through the process including coaches who wish to bridge across."
Madelin McConomy - Bowls Senior Tutor and Level 2 Coach