Complementing the formal FA qualification pathway, our exciting new Coach Development Programme is currently offering valuable face-to-face learning experiences for grassroots coaches, including a session coming-up at Leyton Orient FC.

The programme got underway in August and has been well received so far, with a large number of coaches attending the initial series of events. Recent workshops in Chelmsford, Colchester and Wickford have seen individuals from clubs all around the county benefit from practical ‘On the Pitch’ ideas, brought to life by Essex County FA Coach Developers.

The new Coach Development Programme has welcomed plenty of positive feedback from those attending the ‘On the Pitch’ workshops. In addition, the ‘In Focus’ series kicks-off in November with a coaching event at Leyton Orient FC. This will be an opportunity to hear from academy staff, with detail about their approach to coaching and how they support the children in their care.

The Coach Development Programme will continue to evolve throughout this first year and beyond. There are plenty more opportunities for coaches to access support countywide, through various workshops to suit those working with players of all ages and abilities. Dates are currently available and can be found here.

New FA Coaching Pathway

A brief overview of recent changes to the FA coaching qualification pathway is detailed below, as well as links to useful coaching resources:

BT Playmaker by England Football (New for 2021)

This free, online course is perfect for anyone interested in taking a more active role in grassroots football. Full details can be found here.

Please Note: Coaches must complete this course before beginning the Introduction to Coaching Football Course.

Introduction to Coaching Football Course (New for 2021)

Replacing the FA Level 1 in Coaching Football, this course is completed entirely online. It blends live weekly webinars, e-learning, community support and a range of resources to provide coaches with the skills to coach players of all ages.

England Football Learning (FA Education) have just released new course dates for January to March 2022. Early booking is advised and full details can be found here. 

Please Note: The free BT Playmaker course must be completed prior to an individual booking the I2CF course. This is also useful for anyone looking to take a more active role in the game, such as parent helpers, young people with an interest in coaching or club officials.

UEFA ‘C’ Licence (replacing the FA Level 2)

This new course will launch in early 2022. For any coaches who may be interested in taking this next step on the coaching pathway, please keep an eye on The Boot Room for future updates. Updates will also be shared on this website and the @EssexCoaches Twitter page.

FA Level 3 (UEFA ‘B’) in Coaching Football (Coming Soon)

All future UEFA ‘B’ courses will be delivered by FA Education (now England Football Learning). Further updates are expected in due course.

Safeguarding Children Course* (New for 2021)

This online training module replaces the Safeguarding Children Workshop. Full details can be found here.

Introduction to First Aid in Football (IFAiF)* (New for 2021)

The Introduction to First Aid in Football is now an online course. This is for new coaches, or those wishing to renew their qualification. Full details can be found here.

Please Note: The new Introduction to Coaching Football Course includes both the Safeguarding Children Course and the Introduction to First Aid in Football.

Disability Football Introduction (New for 2021)

This free, online learning module examines how to support individuals, whatever their ability level. Access the module by following this link.

It is also recommended to visit the England Football Learning YouTube channel, which contains a wide variety of ideas to support coaches in their role, as well as our own channel, with playlists dedicated to coaching content. Find access to both via the menus above, by following @EssexCountyFA on Twitter and by searching for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.

Useful Links: Coaches can manage their qualifications and access further learning opportunities via The FA’s ‘My Account’ section. There’s also a huge range of coaching resources, session ideas and top tips available via The Boot Room here.

Here, coaches can search for information specific to the age group they coach, helping them and their players to continue learning. The new community section also allows coaches to join the conversation and interact with a team of coach developers.