BCU Level 4 Pilot Programme (2014 2016) Introduction In preparation for the launch of the new BCU Level 4 in 2015, a second pilot programme is being organised to continue with the development of all aspects of the learning and assessment programme. The BCU Level 4 programme is being developed in conjunction with the BCU Level 4 Delivery and Review Group, the University of Stirling, and the first pilot cohort who started the course in May 2013. This document provides an outline of the BCU Level 4 programme, together with details of how to apply to be part of the second cohort of pilot students. Qualification Overview The BCU Level 4 course aims to provide an innovative programme run through a partnership between the British Canoe Union and the University of Stirling. The programme aims to offer students the opportunity to reflect on their coaching practice, to share those reflections with others, to interact with/review and consider some of the academic literature that may enhance insights, and to receive academic recognition for doing so. Key Attributes the BCU Level 4 Coach will: be considered a high performing coach have a breadth and depth of current coaching behaviour be able to understand the latest research and apply it into their coaching practice be a critically reflective learner be effective in their coaching performance (in terms of their knowledge, understanding and practice) be able to demonstrate effective coaching practice, appropriate to their student needs have a commitment to best practice in coaching Key Competencies the BCU Level 4 Coach will be able to: critically reflect on and develop own coaching practice and philosophy link theory with practice (and practice with theory) make critical decisions to ensure the effectiveness of coaching solve problems occurring in a complex and/or dynamic coaching environment develop and maintain effective coach athlete relationships create and manage an effective learning environment individualised coaching (plan, profile, monitor and students needs) empower independent performer/s plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate (design) strategic coaching programmes to improve performance develop and manage structures to facilitate improved performance Page 1 of 6
Course Delivery The aim with the BCU Level 4 programme is to provide: new knowledge a challenge to students current coaching practice practical opportunities to work with the new material and to challenge current practice tasks which ensure application of the theory into practical coaching delivery discussion forums assessment of key BCU Level 4 attributes/competencies In order to achieve this, the programme will take place over two years and provide the following: 1. Eight University of Stirling Generic Modules 2. BCU Paddlesport Specific Development Note that Technical and Tactical knowledge development is NOT specifically included in the course; Physiological and Psychological background knowledge is included within the programme to build on the content from the BCU Coaching the Mind and Optimising Performance modules. The University of Stirling Modules Eight modules (delivered by the University of Stirling) form a critical aspect of the BCU Level 4 programme. These are all delivered through a distance learning package, via an online portal. This core delivery mechanism allows students to be based anywhere in the UK. The modules are delivered over the two year programme. Material will be accessed online and include required reading and access to lectures via video and audio media. As a guide, students can expect to commit approximately 150 hours of study time to each module, or approx. 1 day per week whilst the module is running (see page 5 6 for outline dates). Students will be supported by an academic tutor from the University of Stirling as well as having access to a student s e forum. The modules will also be supported with activity on the residential component (see below). Residential Component Integral and essential parts of the BCU Level 4 programme are the residential courses. These give face to face input for the University of Stirling modules, as well as providing an opportunity to explore and challenge concepts in paddlesport setting. Attendance at the residential components is a critical aspect of the programme. We will try to accommodate individual needs in exceptional circumstances; however, it is expected that everyone will attend a minimum of six of the seven residential dates. The residential events will normally start at 0900 on day 1, and finish at 1630 on day 2. Where possible we will arrange an informal/optional get together the evening before the course starts at approx. 2100 2200. BCU Paddlesport Specific Development Alongside the University of Stirling modules students complete additional content that supports the application of knowledge into paddlesport coaching. This will be covered through residential courses and independent practical coaching activity and will be inherently linked to the content on the University of Stirling Generic Modules. Page 2 of 6
The provisional dates for the residential events are as follows: 1. 14/15 May 2014 Loughborough 2. 17/18 Sept 2014 Stirling University 3. Feb 2015 TBC 4. 13/14 May 2015 Loughborough 5. Sept 2015 TBC 6. Jan 2016 TBC 7. May 2016 Additional Course Review Programme cost Inevitably a programme such as this does not come cheap. The provisional price of the BCU Level 4 programme is 7000 (reduced rate for pilot). This price includes course costs for the University of Stirling modules and the BCU Residential programme. The course fee includes two nights accommodation for each residential and full board from Saturday morning to Sunday afternoon. Travel expenses are not covered. Payment will be direct to the BCU and Stirling University with an instalment option available. It is anticipated that students on the programme will either fund themselves or seek employer or Home Nation support. For information the MSc component would cost in the region of an additional 1600. Peer support As a pilot course, the BCU are not yet in a position to offer the full mentored package (which will be integrated into the programme starting in 2015). On this second pilot students will be grouped into support groups with peers from the first and/or second cohort to provide a combination of support and critical challenge. Course Director The BCU will appoint a Course Director for each cohort. They will work with the academic tutors to provide support to the students throughout the programme. Assessment Assessment will take place throughout the course and at the end of each module. The BCU Level 4 working group is keen to avoid students simply being assessed by submission of long essays. Therefore, the working group is currently working with The University of Stirling on assessment methods such as observation, professional discussions, critical incident analysis, performer feedback, video diary, projects, case studies and written reflections. The aim with assessment is to provide students with an opportunity to present and defend their ideas. Assessment will be related to the individual students context and, where possible, include practical activity. Ultimately we need to know that the BCU Level 4 coach is a high performing coach in terms of their practice so contextualisation of the learning and assessment is essential. At the end of the programme, successful students will be awarded a BCU Level 4 award, together with a Post Graduate Diploma in Performance Coaching (Paddlesport). Once completed students have the option of continuing to complete a Master s Degree in Performance Coaching with Stirling University. Page 3 of 6
The BCU are currently in discussions with Sports Coach UK about the possibility of this award being endorsed on the UKCC framework; it may be the case that by the end of the pilot the BCU Level 4 programme is UKCC endorsed. Application Process Applications should be made via the attached application form. The closing date for applications is 20/12/13. A place on the course will be confirmed by 7 th March latest. Once a place is offered applicants are required to formally accept their place and make a financial commitment (required by April 2014). The BCU will appoint a panel to review all applications. Applicants will be selected based on their suitability for the programme. Applicants are expected to evidence expertise at the forefront of their specialism, should have a relevant coaching qualification and significant experience coaching in a performance setting. For example, active and experienced: Home Nation Employed Coaches BCU (UKCC) Level 3 Providers BCU (UKCC) Level 3 Coaches BCU Level 5 Coaches GB Canoeing Coaches There are no formal academic entry requirements; support will be available for all coaches to develop the academic skills required. There are 16 places available on this second pilot course. The selection of applications will be affected by the needs of the pilot programme, as well as by individual merit. Unsuccessful students may be offered a place on the course starting in 2015. The panel will review applications in conjunction with the University of Stirling and make final recommendations to the BCU Coaching Operations Group. If you are interested in applying for the course, but have reservations or questions, please do get in touch. We will do our best to accommodate (where possible) individual needs to make the course accessible. Questions should be directed towards your Home Nation Coaching Manager who will be able to gain a response on your behalf. A Final Word of Caution Please be advised that this is a pilot programme and changes to the detail of the course programme are highly likely as the programme unfolds. As a potential student on the pilot programme it is important to accept a degree of uncertainty, and be committed to supporting the BCU in the development of this exciting qualification. The BCU is equally committed to using this pilot to help with the development of the qualification, alongside providing a high quality learning and development experience to further enhance the students paddlesport coaching skills. As a pilot programme there will also be on going review activities as required. Page 4 of 6
Summary of the University of Stirling Generic Modules The Coaching Process: (September 2014 December 2014) This module is based on the integration of research and personal practice and provides an opportunity to examine models of the coaching process and the cognitive expertise required to influence the process. The module also examines the orchestration skills required to manage the coaching process, particularly in relation to interpersonal relationships and the day to day regulation of the coaching process. Performance Analysis: (September 2014 December 2014) Provides a theoretical and practical understanding of applied Performance Analysis in high level sports performance; to improve personal coaching practice and the performance attributes of athletes; to examine mechanisms for improving performance; and, to appraise personal practice against key performance analysis concepts. Planning the Coaching Process: (December 2014 February 2015) As applied sports science research advances our knowledge and understanding of training effects, there is a need for coaches to integrate these findings in systematic, coherent preparation and competition programmes. This module aims to equip coaches with a greater understanding of the principles involved in effective planning and practice within the complexity of the coaching process. Coaching Concepts: (February 2015 May 2015) This module will further the Coaching Process module and will provide opportunities to further examine appropriate models of the coaching process, and to examine the cognitive expertise required to effect the process. The module is based on the integration of research and personal practice. It will also examine the orchestration skills required to manage the coaching process, particularly in relation to interpersonal relationships, and the day to day regulation of the coaching process. Understanding Performance: (February 2015 May 2015) Takes students on from the BCU Intermediate modules: Coaching the Mind and Optimising Performance to develop further understanding of psychology and physiology. The module will challenge students to integrate concepts from the latest research into their practical coaching. Independent Study: (September 2015 January 2016) Provides an opportunity for an individualised contribution to learning that is both negotiated and an agreed consequence of a needs analysis; to provide additional flexibility and width to the learning framework; to increase the sports specific nature of the course and to provide participants with the opportunity to develop their reflective practice. Page 5 of 6
Coaching as Learning: (September 2015 December 2015) Coaching and the development of coaches have, for far too long, focussed on the what rather than the how skills and knowledge. This module aims to develop both the understanding and the practice of the student coaches in pedagogical terms. The primary aims of the module therefore are to enable coaches to apply integrated approaches to pedagogy in generating, managing, and directing coaching practice; to understand a range of theories and concepts related to the application of innovative pedagogy; to allow coaches to apply and critically reflect upon pedagogy and the conditions within which performers learn. Pedagogy and Practice: (February 2016 May 2016) Enables coaches to apply integrated approaches to pedagogy in generating, managing, and directing coaching practice; to understand a range of theories and concepts related to the application of innovative pedagogy; to allow coaches to apply and reflect upon pedagogy and the conditions within which performers learn. Page 6 of 6