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23 Jan 2025 113

Partners gather for UK Coaching’s Festival of Learning

Over 100 partners came together for UK Coaching’s online Festival of Learning, an event designed to foster innovation, share best practices, and provide expert insights into the coaching world.

This festival offered participants a unique chance to explore coaching research, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and gain valuable guidance in supportive learning environments designed to inspire new ideas.

The event opened with CEO Mark Gannon reaffirming UK Coaching’s commitment to being “Here for the Coach” and connecting the wider coaching system to support them.

His introduction set the stage for an inspiring keynote speech from Adam Elliott, Triathlon Olympic Performance Coach and UK Coaching Award winner. Adam shared his journey from grassroots coaching to training double Olympic gold medallist Alex Yee, offering invaluable lessons from his career.

Reflecting on the power of coaching, Adam said:

Being part of someone’s journey as a coach is fantastic. If I can make someone’s life better through sport, then I’ve done a good job. And sometimes it has a cool finish.

Highlights from the Festival

The festival was packed with engaging sessions, including:

  • Launch of the "Coaching in the UK" YouGov Research: Unveiling new insights into the state of coaching in the UK.
  • Young Coaches Panel: A vibrant discussion featuring young coaches sharing their experiences, challenges, and aspirations.
  • Interactive Workshops: Covering topics like neurodiversity in coaching, creating inclusive environments, and safeguarding adults.
  • Coaching Circles: A collaborative space for sharing challenges and solutions.
  • British Taekwondo’s Approach to Coach Development: Exploring innovative pathways for learning and assessment.

In a standout workshop led by Dr. Josephine Perry, participants gained a deeper understanding of neurodiversity. She emphasised the importance of creating inclusive spaces in sport:

Those of us working in sport and exercise have a duty of care to understand the struggles and pressures that come from being neurodiverse in environments that are not designed with their brain in mind. When we communicate well, create a safe supportive environment, and embrace neurodiverse behaviours and motivations, both coach and participant thrive. - Dr. Josephine Perry.

The Youth Panel featured six passionate young coaches, including Gabrielle Reid, Haider Bashir, Phoebe Richards Reeves, Freddie Streeter and Jermaine Corbin - Abbot who are either pursuing or have recently completed coaching qualifications. They shared why coaching inspires them, what they love about their roles, and how the industry can better support new coaches.

When discussing their everyday wins, they all agreed that seeing joy in their sessions was a key motivator.

Haider shared:

My everyday win is children leaving with a smile on their faces.

Positive Feedback from Participants

Attendees praised the festival for its relevance and inspiration:

Thank you so much for your time, what a great session, feel inspired!!

Thanks everyone, great session! You guys are amazing and so inspiring!

I just think in a world where young people get so much stick it is wonderful to hear you all this morning.

Hayley Khan, UK Coaching’s Director of Development reflected on the day:

What a fantastic day, it’s inspiring to see so many partners come together to share knowledge, tackle challenges, and celebrate the positive impact that great coaching has on individuals and communities. Events like this are key to building a workforce that is skilled, confident, and ready to support everyone on their coaching journey.

Interested in Great Coaching?

UK Coaching is committed to equipping organisations and coaches with the skills and confidence needed to deliver exceptional coaching experiences. Learn more about our services here or get in touch with us today at [email protected]

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