You don't always have to start at the introductory level and work your way up - often coaches’ start at level one or sometimes even level two. The National Governing Body for your sport will have its own coaching qualifications and a structured pathway that will be able to provide you with the opportunity to develop your coaching skills to whatever level you want. You will need to contact them to find out what they can offer you.

This structure often takes the following format:

• Leaders/Introductory course - an introductory course for beginners, providing the basics to help in a club;
• Level 1 - assistant coach;
• Level 2 - full coach;
• Level 3 - full coach with additional responsibilities e.g. mentoring other coaches;
• Level 4 - regional coach;
• Level 5 - elite coach.

I know what sport I am interested in……. click here to find out further information on your chosen sport.

Alternatively, your Local Authority has a Sports Development unit which will also provide coaching opportunities. Most Sports Development units will offer a programme of general coaching courses and will also be aware of what National Governing Body courses are running in the area. You may find them a useful contact as they provide information on what is happening at a local level.