Workforce Development Update

Edition 14: 23 June 2008

As you may have already seen or heard, the ASA has unveiled a new name and new look to create a new definition of who it is and what it does. The organisation will now be known simply as 'the asa', rather than the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA).   It has taken this decision because as one of the most professionally run sports' national governing bodies, it is felt that the use of the word 'amateur' no longer delivers any real benefit in terms of what it does and has a different perception today than its original message.  I am sure you have already noticed the new logo in use on the website and this will be rolled out gradually from now on - supported by the familiar heraldic emblem, which it is felt could be seen as old-fashioned but does still show the organisation's historic roots. Therefore this heraldic emblem will now appear as a 'badge of honour', which sits on the top left hand corner of publications and literature.  An article containing more information has appeared in the July edition of Swimming Times. If you have any queries about the new branding these should be addressed to Katie Brazier at katie.brazier@swimming.org.

New 2008 eligibility and selection policies have been added to the AASE web section for all disciplines.  There are also information booklets available for potential candidates, click here to download.

Also on the website are Ethnicity and Disability codes for use on candidate registration forms here and updated IoS CPD Seminar booking forms here

Regional IoS tutors Ellie Purvis and Ray Butters recently met with the University of East London and e-learning experts Kineo to continue development of the distance learning programme for coaches.  A first draft of the programme is currently being prepared.

We have received feedback from a primary teacher and aqua instructor who recently attended a continuing professional development seminar on the topic of Aqua Extreme run by tutor Jan Tattersall: "Full of inspiration - of which I thank you for.  As a one off session within our schools "10 week slot!" I have just delivered a roll on roll off session of Aqua Max to all of our year 3, 4, 5 and 6 children. 70 in each year group. It was fab! Lots of fun, lots of smiles and totally brill!"

Also some great feedback from attendees on Level 3 Certificate for Coaching Swimming:
Carl Cooper, Head Coach Sudbury and District SC: "... our main aim is to grow the club and produce national level swimmers. My recent studies on the UKCC Level 3 course has already started to help with this as I know my planning and coaching have improved and enabled me to move onto the next level. The course is also a fantastic management course and I've been able to use a lot of the subject matter in my work as an operations manager for a marketing company. I loved the course, particularly meeting other enthusiastic coaches and learning lots from them."

Francis Bunker, Chief Coach Pembroke and District SC: "The course has changed the way I work - my swimmers are now enjoying their sets more.  I teach mixed sessions, 11-13 yr olds as well as 16-18 yrs and the ones in between so it is harder work for me as they all need different things, but the swimmers are getting more out of it. The course has given me the confidence to know what to say and has helped me to see things in a clearer way.  It has helped me to devise appropriate activities and training for the different stages of development.  I like the modern thinking behind it."

Paul Drawbridge, Volunteer Coach Dunstable SC, Beds: "I'm only about a third of the way through the Level 3, but have found all of the units so far very beneficial. The LTAD module sparked lots of debate within our group, but certainly made us all think a little deeper about the way in which we coach our swimmers and what to expect at different stages in a child's development. LTAD at Level 2 only really skimmed the surface, but at Level 3 it goes quite deep."

That's all for now, thanks for reading,

If you would like future editions of this update emailed straight to you as soon as they become available, please send your contact details to claire.freeman@swimming.org

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