Our Coach Education Department hosted two simultaneous educational workshops entitled ‘Designing Effective Practice’ at Leisure United in Dagenham and at Witham Town FC on Monday 14th October.

This workshop aimed to support coaches to consider the planning process of “Plan, Do, Review” in addition to how to consider realism, relevance and repetition, as well as other planning models to support the development of skilful players in the game.

A total of 36 coaches attended, across two events, from various clubs and youth leagues. They participated in the workshops, which were designed to equip them with the tools and knowledge to make every training session both productive and enjoyable.

Dagenham’s Parsloes Park workshop was led by Tom Sibthorpe, the Essex County FA’s Coach Development Officer, and Coach Developer, Neal Akhtar. It explored the concept behind how coaches can tailor their drills and exercises to the differing needs of their players. The Witham workshop was led by two more Coach Developers, David Streetley and Joe Prosser, focusing on the same themes.

Tom explained: “It was really pleasing to see both events well attended. The learners were able to discuss and share how they currently plan, deliver and review their sessions, and were tasked to think more deeply about the reasons why they might do the things they currently do. This allowed them to develop their planning skills, and to really dive into what matters to them as coaches and their players. It was a positive evening!”

As the football season continues, the Essex County FA remain committed to supporting grassroots coaches with workshops like these, aimed at improving the quality of training environments and helping players reach their full potential. Coaches were encouraged to think creatively when meeting the needs of their players, in addition to considering the importance of realistic practice design, and recognising the value of reviewing, and reflecting upon, their sessions.

For more information on upcoming coaching workshops, and how to get involved, browse the 'Coaches' menu above, interact with @EssexCountyFA and @EssexCoaches on X and search for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.