Swim England members given invaluable opportunity to help shape new coaching strategy

Coaches, participants, parents and clubs are being given an invaluable opportunity to play an active role in shaping the future of coaching in aquatics.

Swim England is to launch a new coaching strategy in 2025 and the views of the aquatics community will be at its heart.

The Co-creation of the Future of Coaching process aims to reconnect and redefine the purpose of coaching, build on existing good practice and create a thriving and flourishing coaching culture. 

A survey is being distributed to more than 129,000 Swim England members over the next few weeks, while a series of nationwide workshops will also be held for coaches to explore, reflect, discuss and develop ideas.

The Co-creation of the Future of Coaching will aim to achieve better experiences for coaches, clubs and participants.  

Craig McCulloch, Swim England head of coaching, said the insight gathered from the survey and workshops would help to lay the foundations of the new strategy.

“This is a key chance to be part of a shared vision which shapes the future of coaching across all aquatic sports,” said Craig.

“The Listening Report highlighted a number of negative experiences in coaching and we’re committed to ensuring this doesn’t happen in the future.

“However, we can’t do this on our own.

“The Co-creation of the Future of Coaching is a process that will create a sense of belonging and shared ownership. It will be a strategy for coaches, informed by coaches and everyone they work closely with.

“By sharing your views, you’ll be helping to ensure that we foster a culture that is supportive and inclusive, where coaches are equipped to lead by example and inspire everyone.”

The survey will ask coaches to share their views on the fundamental purpose of coaching, what is good coaching, the challenges they face in their role and what they would like to see from coach development in the future.

Participants and parents will also be asked what qualities they value in a coach and how they feel when training.

The survey will be open until the end of April, while the workshops will take place on the following dates throughout March, with sessions taking place at two times – 1.30pm to 4pm and 5.30pm to 8pm – at each venue:

• Wednesday 26 March: Holiday Inn, Deane Gate Ave, Taunton TA1 2UA

Places can be booked on the workshops by clicking here.

Craig added: “This is an exciting process which will drive significant change and create a roadmap for the future which the coaching community can be proud of.”

If you have not received a copy of the survey and wish to submit your views, please email coaching@swimming.org