Advanced Coaching Programme

By being part of the Advanced Coach Programme (ACP), you will:

• Be equipped to regularly self-reflect and analyse your coaching practice and behaviours.
• Improve your knowledge of the game through greater understanding and application of the Self, Player, Environment, and Game components.
• Grow as a coach by being part of a safe learning network in which check and challenge are encouraged and supported.
• Become more creative, open-minded, and prepared to raise the bar within your coaching environment.
• Have opportunities for increased connections within the hockey coaching community.

The ACP is built around the four key component areas which help coaches to deliver excellent coaching practice:

• Self: Focus on self-awareness, management, and values.
• Player: Focus on relationships, development qualities, and potential.
• Environment: Focus on culture, climate, and effective practice design.
• Game: Focus on tactical understanding and game principles.

You will be the key driver of your ACP experience, supported by a variety of people and methods, including:

• Mentoring: All ACP coaches are allocated a mentor (GB Hockey Coach Developer) who works with them throughout the two-year programme.
• Learning Modules: You will independently work through a series of online learning modules covering content in the four component areas (SPEG).
• Peer Support: Working with other coaches on ACP to share best practice ideas and develop together through discussions and observations.
• In-person Opportunities: A series of events open to all ACP coaches to attend to further development, including an induction event at the FIH Hockey Pro League event at Lee Valley in June.
• Other Bespoke Opportunities: Further tailored support opportunities.

The ACP is for coaches working in all areas of the game who are passionate about improving their coaching for the benefit of their players and the sport. The ultimate goal is to move your delivery from good to great and help you inspire more, better, and happier players.

Whether you are coaching children, adults, in a club environment and/or talent development, this programme will offer you tailored learning based on your role and who you coach.

There is also an option for a one-year ACP Foundation Programme that coaches may wish to consider. More information is available here.

This two-year learning programme costs £1400

Please get in touch with the team if you would like to discuss possible support around payment.

The Advanced Coach Programme is subject to an application process. 

Apply Here

Application Window and Timeline

Applications will open on Monday 8 December 2025 and close on Monday 12 January 2026 (midnight). All applicants will be advised of the outcome by Thursday 5 February 2026.

Application Requirements and Criteria

To complete your application, you will be asked to provide details regarding your coaching experience, motivation for joining the ACP, any previous ACP applications, and your current coaching practice. Furthermore, you will be required to submit a formal reference and two videos (one for the application, and one demonstrating coaching practice).

Applicants will be assessed against selection criteria that look for curiosity, a desire for self-development, and capacity to drive learning. Full details of the application process and criteria can be found in the prospectus.