Our coaching framework

A graphic illustrating the new coach development framework

We've refreshed our coach development framework to better reflect how coaches actually learn and develop - whether you're just starting out, looking to specialise, or building on years of experience.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all ladder, it’s a flexible journey that aligns with your skills, gives you room to grow, and connects you to the people and tools that make a difference.

So what’s changed?

No set pathway - multiple entry points to suit different coaching roles.
More CPD, fewer costly qualifications - develop your skills without the need for expensive courses.
Modern coaching - a simple-to-use learning platform with modern content, providing better communication and easier management of your coaching record.
More connection - access to a network of coach developers to guide and support you on the ground.
More choice in how you learn - with practical workshops, online sessions, and targeted CPD to help you grow in the areas that matter to you.

How it works

Think of it as a network of opportunities, not a ladder - choose where to start and what to build on. Our new coaching courses launched in July 2025, with existing Level 1 and 2 courses wrapping up in May and June. These revamped courses will equip you with the core skills to coach confidently, with optional extension courses available for further development.

Game Changer - a starting point for anyone interested in coaching, giving you the skills to deliver certain programmes when taken alongside linked courses.
Community Development Coach - focuses on making squash accessible, fun, and engaging for all to help grow the game, helping players build confidence and skills at their own pace.
Player Development Coach - designed for coaches who want to help players progress, whether that’s improving in their club, competing, or working towards personal goals.

A squash coach delivering a Mixed Ability session

Why it’s better for you

Easier to plan your development with clear options that match your goals.
Free safeguarding and first aid training included with full qualifications and Coaches Club membership.
All learning is aligned with up-to-date coaching best practice.
Designed to be inclusive, player-centred, and relevant to real coaching.
Ongoing support from experienced coach developers across the country.

Already coaching?

Here’s what you need to know:

If you’re mid-way through a qualification, just continue as usual - there will be no changes to your current pathway.
If you’re already qualified, your qualification still stands.
If you already hold safeguarding or first aid certificates, they remain valid until they expire (you’ll then renew through the platform for free if you’re a Coaches Club member).
Level 1 coaches have until 1 February 2026 to complete the free online First Aid Awareness course - your Coaches Club membership remains valid during this time.
Community Development Coaches and Level 1 coaches can now deliver one-to-one sessions by completing our Introduction to Individual Coaching CPD workshop.

Core courses - breakdown

COURSE:	GAME CHANGER	COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT	PLAYER DEVELOPMENT	TALENT DEVELOPMENT
Who you'll coach:	Beginners and social players	Groups of beginners and club players. Can deliver one-to-one sessions after completing a One-to-One Masterclass CPD workshop.	Group and individual sessions for beginners, club and competitive players.	Talent pathway athlete
Key information:	Online only. 16+ insured to deliver group adult sessions. 14-16 year olds insured to assist.	Hybrid delivery. 4 hours e-learning and half day practical session.	Hybrid delivery. 8 hours e-learning, 2 full day practical sessions.	Hybrid delivery. 8 hours e-learning, 6 full day practical sessions, 8 webinars, final presentation.
Additional requirements	None	DBS Safeguarding First Aid	DBS Safeguarding First Aid	DBS Safeguarding First Aid
Pre-requisites:	None	None	Reasonable understanding of squash.	Minimum 2 years’ coaching experience as a qualified England Squash coach.
Qualification:	Game Changer (Leader)	Qualified coach	Qualified coach	Qualified coach

Extension courses - breakdown

Extension courses available for further development:

COURSE:	SQUASH STARS	BESPOKE GAME CHANGER PRACTICAL	SQUASH FROM THE MOSQUE	SQUASH 57	READY, SET, SQUASH	MIXED ABILITY SQUASH	PRACTICAL WORKSHOPS	E-LEARNNG & WEBINARS
Minimum coach level	Game Changer	Game Changer	Qualified coach	Qualified coach	Qualified coaches & teachers	Qualified coach	Any	Any
Key information:	Online	2-hour practical available to block book by organisations.	Online	2-hour practical - available on request	Online	Online	2-hour practical	Online
Additional requirements:	DBS Safeguarding	DBS Safeguarding First Aid (Through England Squash or own provider).	DBS Safeguarding First Aid	DBS Safeguarding First Aid	DBS Safeguarding First Aid (Schools through own provider)	DBS Safeguarding First Aid	None	None