Choosing the right Coach

Sometimes, the key to a successful and fulfilling archery experience often lies in choosing the right coach. Finding a coach who not only possesses expertise but also aligns with your individual or your child's learning style, goals, and aspirations is crucial. Below, we'll explore the essential considerations and tips to help you navigate the process of selecting the perfect archery coach, ensuring a path to skill development, enjoyment, and lasting enthusiasm for the sport.

Freelance coaches

Many clubs have licenced Archery GB coaches, but another option you may consider is a freelance coach. We've put together some guidance to help you make a safe and informed decision when selecting a freelance coach.

Archery GB cannot regulate freelance coaches who operate outside the Archery GB environment. In these instances, we advise you to check that they: 

• Have a valid Enhanced DBS/PVG/Access NI vetting check for a coaching role. Ask to see a copy of the vetting certificate, which will state the role applied for, i.e. Child Workforce Coach
• Have the relevant minimum qualifications for their role (ideally a valid Archery GB coaching licence). Ask to see their Archery GB membership card which should state which grade of coach licence they have and it should also show the expiry date of their coaching licence
• Have current public liability and professional indemnity insurance cover – ask to see a copy of insurance certificates to ensure they are valid
• Have undertaken a safeguarding course within the last 3 years, e.g. UK Coaching/CPSU Safeguarding and Protecting Children workshop. Ask to see a copy of the training course certificate
• Seek references/recommendations from other athletes, parents, organisations 

How can you ensure your athlete is safe when they are being instructed by a freelance coach? Questions you should ask yourself: 

One-to-one tuition: 

• Could you or another adult you trust be there to supervise the athlete during the coaching session?
• Could unacceptable behaviour go unnoticed?
• Are there secure toilet and changing facilities?
• Does the coach accept your questions or are they brushed aside?
• Are electronic communications sent to you or copied into you as the parent/carer?
• How do you report concerns and who to? 

Group tuition: 

• Are there adequate supervision ratios? See our Good Practice Guidance for supervision information

Take 10 minutes to keep children safe in our sport. 

It's up to all of us to keep children safe. It doesn't matter if you are a coach, parent, instructor or club member, we can all play our part. We're asking everyone in archery to take 10 minutes to complete the NSPCC's Listen Up, Speak Up training.

It takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a community to keep children safe. We want the archery community to pledge their time to ensure our sport is safe. Make yourself a brew and commit 10 minutes to complete your online training via the button below: