Over the past few weeks, we've marked the completion of two development programmes helping shape the future of coaching across the Olympic and Paralympic system. Together, they’ re helping more people develop the skills, confidence and connections needed to keep Britain at the top on Olympic and Paralympic sport.
The fourth iteration of the Supporting Coaching in High Performance Sport (SCiHPS) programme has come to a close, alongside the Athlete to Coach programme, marking significant milestones in our commitment to developing world-class coaches and the people who support them.
Together, these programmes support the ambition of the 2032 High Performance System Coaching Strategy: creating an environment where coaches are better supported, more valued and able to thrive, while strengthening the pathways that help talented people enter and progress in coaching
Developing those who support coaches
Since launching in 2021, SCiHPS has helped practitioners build the skills and experience needed to support world-class coaches across the system.
Over 18-months, participants developed the knowledge, skills and practical experience needed to design and deliver effective and ethical programmes of coach support. A key principle of the programme was to learn through doing, with the group continually testing and refining ideas across a number of fulfilling environments.
As the programme concludes, many participants will now progress to a six-month bridging module and Postgraduate Diploma in Coach Development, and towards professional recognition.
From athlete to coach
The latest Athlete to Coach programme was launched in May 2025 with a simple aim: to help talented athletes successfully transition into high performance coaching careers.
Tash Angel, UK Sport Coaching Network Advisor, reflected on the cohort’s journey; “The power of connection featured strongly, with participants highlighting the value of building relationships with fellow cohort members and the many coaches, leaders and practitioners they encountered along the way. These connections helped broaden perspectives and created a strong sense of community that participants intend to carry forward throughout their careers.
Exposure to a wide range of coaching environments was another defining feature. Spending time within different sports, teams and performance settings challenged existing assumptions and expanded thinking about what coaching can be and the many ways coaches create impact.”
The programme also helped participants better understand the coach they want to become. Through reflection and feedback, they explored how their athlete experiences shape their coaching while continuing to develop their own approach.
Many participants spoke about opportunities and experiences they would not otherwise have encountered, helping them build confidence, broaden their horizons and prepare for the realities of coaching.
Importantly, the programme also prompted conversations around wellbeing, family life, self-care and where coaching fits within a broader performance plan.
As one participant reflected, "It's not about what you bring with you, it's about what you do in the moment."
Looking ahead
Both programmes show what's possible when talented people are given the challenge, support and space to grow. By bringing together learning, reflection and real-world experience, they are helping build stronger coaching environments for the future.
As all participants move forward, they do so with stronger networks, greater confidence and a clearer sense of what's next. The impact of these programmes won't end here. The relationships, learning and ideas developed along the way will continue to strengthen coaching across the high performance system as we move towards LA 2028, Alpes 2030 and beyond.