Club Leaders’ Academy

scottishathletics is committed to ensuring that staff and volunteers are supported to run clubs as effectively as possible. We believe that investing in people is critical to support clubs in their development and to help them face the future confidently.

To support the development of Club Leaders scottishathletics delivers an ILM accredited Club Leadership and Management Programme.

Nearly 40 Club Leaders from athletics clubs across Scotland have now completed the programme since 2016 combining their development as leaders with the practical knowledge and skills required to play a leadership role in athletics clubs. This has proved to be a great personal development opportunity for those individuals.

Leadership Development 

Candidates will cover the following modules through attendance at the Club Leaders Academy workshops:

• Leadership skills and behaviours
• Leadership styles
• Good management in practice
• Relationship building, influencing and conflict management
• Leadership in sport
• Developing an impactful culture

Club/ Business Development

Through online learning and attendance at workshops candidates will cover the following modules:

• Club Governance
• Legal status and options
• Club management and effective structures
• Strategic, business and operational planning
• Financial management and planning
• Marketing and communication
• Coach development

Time commitment and attendance

In order to obtain their certificate for the Club Leadership and Management Programme all Leaders’ must:

• Attend a minimum of four (out of 6) leadership development workshops over a 10-month period
• Complete seven online training courses in their own time over a 10-month period
• Attend a minimum of three club development workshops/ webinars over a 10-month period

Cost and benefits

The cost for the full year’s programme is only £75 per leader which includes accommodation and meals for a one night residential, and attendance and refreshments at all workshops throughout the Club Leaders’ Academy programme.

Additionally, leaders will also receive access to the ILM Learning Zone for 12-months, enabling access to thousands of articles, videos and resources that can support their personal and professional development.

Not only does the Club Leaders Academy present a great opportunity to learn from hugely experienced and knowledgeable speakers but it is also the perfect place to share experiences with, and learn from, peers within other athletics clubs in Scotland.

For further information or to express an interest in attending the Club Leaders Academy please e-mail development@scottishathletics.org.uk.