We’re looking for new cohort for Club Leaders Academy programme

Sunday 15th October 2023

Photo by Bobby Gavin

Club Leaders Academy Cohort 4 Information for Applicants

scottishathletics are seeking applicants for our latest Club Leaders Academy – which will run over 2023-24.

This innovative programme will support up to 16 current and aspiring club leaders to develop a broader understanding of business development within a club context, hone their skills as leaders, and provide a strong emphasis on practice-based learning.

We’re looking for folk to commit to a programme over 12 months to develop themselves as an effective and skilled club leader.

scottishathletics is very much committed to ensuring that club leaders, staff, and volunteers are supported to assist them navigate the demands of running a modern, sector-leading sports club.

We believe that investing in the development and education of people is essential to support clubs on their journey – and thus help grow our sport.

‘Since 2016, and over three cohorts, almost 40 leaders from athletics and running clubs across Scotland have completed our Club Leaders Academy programme,’ said David Fallon, our Head of Development, with applications open to November 1.

‘The programme has combined their personal development as leaders with the practical knowledge and skills.

Apply here

David Fallon, our Head of Development (photo by Bobby Gavin)

‘We feel it has proved to be a great opportunity for those individuals.

‘So we are delighted to announce that the Club Leaders Academy programme is re-launching following a break due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘In the new programme, particular emphasis will be placed on creating, managing and enhancing, effective working relationships with management boards/committees, whilst developing and leading the club workforce (paid staff and/or volunteers).

‘There will also be a focus on developing the strategic and business plans of the club.

‘Not only does the Club Leaders Academy present a great chance to learn from hugely experienced and knowledgeable subject matter experts, but it is also the perfect forum to share experiences with, and learn from, peers within other athletics clubs in Scotland.’

*Club Leaders will embark on a 12-month leadership and education journey, kicking off with a residential launch at Glenmore Lodge, Aviemore, on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 November 2023.

They will then be invited to several in-person and online workshops throughout the year that will help review and develop their leadership, skills, and knowledge, across a number of core club and business competency areas.

‘I am delighted to see the Club Leaders Academy return to our club education programme,’ said Colin Hutchison, our chief executive.

‘We have committed in ‘Building a Culture of Success’ (our Strategy) to continually evolving our support for current and aspiring club leaders and volunteers and I believe the education that the Academy provides can be vital in supporting the development of leaders and their clubs.

‘I sincerely hope that the clubs can see the value of investing in their leaders, and evidence from many involved in the Academy in the past suggests that the programme can drive change in clubs and provide leaders with new knowledge and skills that can be utilised in their voluntary and professional roles.’

Apply here