The Irish Gymnastics Level 1 Coaching Award is the second step through the Coach Education Programme and is available to those who have completed the Irish Gymnastics Introductory course or equivalent (for same discipline) and wish to prepare and deliver coaching activities sessions independently. This award focuses on giving coaches the knowledge and skills to deliver quality coaching sessions to gymnasts at regional/local level.
The Level 1 Award focuses on producing a competent coach who can promote the benefits and joy of gymnastics and appropriate skill acquisition through quality coaching of gymnasts at the regional/local level. The work of coaches at this level is vital in ensuring ongoing contributing to the future and success of gymnastics in Ireland. Coaches completing the Level 1 award will be qualified to conduct gymnastic activity sessions independently within a club environment and within the discipline and the boundaries of their qualification.
The Level 1 course is aligned to the National Coaching Development Programme at Level 1 as defined by Coaching Ireland and as a result the qualification is nationally recognised.
In order to gain a Level 1 coaching qualification the candidate coach must attend a Level 1 discipline specific course in addition to the multi-discipline Level 1 Common Core course. The cost of the Common Core is built into the booking of your sports specific Level 1 - once you have booked on the sports specific Level 1 you will be contacted by IG to select your preferred Common Core date. Dates for upcoming Common Core courses are listed in the 'Upcoming Courses' section also.
The common core is recongnised in all disciplines and only needs to be taken once if coaches intend on sitting a variety discipline sports specific courses at this level.
Coaching Certificates cannot be issued unless both the discipline specific & common courses have been attended, in addition to the completion/passing of relevant examinations.
About the Course...
The Level 1 Coaching Award is a 4/5 day course (depending on discipline) which is interactive and involves practical and theory modules, discussions and presentations. The course will develop your ability to plan and prepare coaching activities, increase knowledge and skill of elements of the discipline and equipment.
The course includes modules on...
1: Long term gymnast development
2: Coaching principles and the role of the level 1 coach
3: Code of ethics and good practice
4: Integration and inclusion
5: Health and safety / dealing with accidents and illness
6: Coaching styles and effective communication
7: Coaching methods
8: Diet and nutrition
9: Group organisation
10: Development of Young Gymnasts
11: Biomechanics and physical preparation
12: Discipline specific skills
The course includes a period of home study and practical and theory assessment. On successful attendance at the course you will embark on a period of practical coaching experience which consists of a coaching log book.
Keeping Your Qualification Valid...
To keep your qualification, as a Level 1 coach valid, you will need to remain an Irish Gymnastics member to benefit from the insurance package. You will also need to keep your knowledge up-to-date with current coaching practice and attend CPD (continued professional development) courses offered by Irish Gymnastics.
Please note that you are required to bring a gymnast with you on all level 1 courses to work with.
