Types of learning and coaching programmes

Formal Learning: This refers to structured educational experiences with specific objectives and outcomes. This category includes leisure-related degrees, diplomas, certificates and apprenticeships.
Informal Learning: Casual learning that occurs in day-to-day life. Includes practical experience, such as volunteering at leisure events or casual employment in the leisure industry.
Non-Formal Learning: Organised and structured but lacks formal certification. Examples include community sports coaching or leisure centre training days.
Work-Based Learning: A blend of daily work tasks and learning activities designed to develop skills directly relevant to the learner’s role within the leisure industry.

Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD): A coaching approach that focuses on delivering age-appropriate coaching and training to support the progressive development of sporting skills.
Skills Development Coaching: Focused on developing specific skills required for a particular sport or activity. May take place at all levels from beginner to elite.
Performance Coaching: Concentrates on the needs of elite athletes aiming to reach peak performance in their chosen sport. Includes mental conditioning and injury prevention.
Lifestyle Coaching: Not limited to developing sports skills but also employability skills, personal and social development. Often used in community leisure programmes to make sport and physical activity more appealing to wider audiences.

Skill Enhancement: Learning and coaching programmes offer avenues for participants in leisure activities to enhance their skills and improve performance.
Community Engagement: Leisure events create a sense of community and promote active participation. Learning and coaching programmes prepare individuals to contribute effectively.
Career Progression: Learning programmes provide qualifications and work-based learning develops skills that can open up opportunities for career advancement in the leisure industry.
Health Promotion: Knowledge from leisure and coaching programmes can be implemented in day-to-day life, promoting healthier lifestyles and physical wellbeing.

Instructor-led Training: Delivered by experienced coaches or trainers in person. Suitable for practical skills acquisition and allows for immediate feedback.
Online Learning: Flexible and self-paced. Can be used for theoretical topics in learning programmes.
Blended Learning: A mix of instructor-led and online learning. Balances flexibility with the opportunity for practical training and direct feedback.
Workshops: Short, intensive, practical sessions often used for specific skill development or knowledge upskilling.