The Institute of Swimming is in the running for a national award which recognises excellence in coaching.
It has been named as a finalist in the UK Coaching – Transforming Coaching Through Technology Award for its blended learning courses.
The winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony at London’s Honourable Artillery Company on Thursday 29 November.
Around 70% of Swim England coaches qualifying this year chose a blended learning course, which offers a more flexible approach to learning.
Theoretical elements of the course are completed online through interactive activities and checks on understanding, prior to the practical workshops.
Rebecca Cox, managing director of the Institute of Swimming, said:
“We’re thrilled to be named as a finalist at the UK Coaching Awards.
“Blended learning allows our coaches to experience the best of the face-to-face delivery model combined with the advantages associated with digitally enhanced learning.
“Over the last two years, we have worked closely with technical experts from Swim England to develop the coaching pathway across swimming, diving, synchronised swimming and water polo. This pathway has been developed into eight blended learning programmes across three different levels of coach education; Assistant Coach, Coach and Senior Coach. These blended programmes are offered alongside traditional face-to-face courses.
“Blended learning has had a fundamental impact upon the accessibility of learning for coaches. This is particularly important for a predominantly volunteer workforce who have many other commitments upon their time and require flexible learning which fits into their lifestyles.
“UK Coaching received a record amount of nominations for their awards this year so it’s an honour in itself to be named as a finalist.”
The UK Coaching Awards honour great coaching from people and organisations who have demonstrated outstanding success over the previous 12 months.
Hosted by UK Coaching, the event raises the profile of coaching and the role it plays in transforming lives and inspiring an active nation.