An NVQ in coaching could be available within the next year following the completion of national occupational standards for the profession.
Training standards organisation ENTO says there will definitely be a level four qualification, and there is also the possibility of qualifications at levels three and five.
Connie Young, ENTO’s standards and qualifications manager, played down the potential assessment problems that the confidential nature of coaching may create.
“It is likely to be dealt with in a similar way to many other NVQs where an element of a person’s job involves dealing with people in a confidential manner,” she said.
“The awarding bodies come to a view with sector representatives about how ability can be assessed. It could be written tests, observation of a simulated session or an experienced professional talking to someone as a colleague about a particular aspect of their job.”
ENTO is due to submit its proposed set of occupational standards and training structure for coaches to national qualification regulators this month.
“We are hoping for approval before Christmas,” said Young. “At that stage, it will be handed over to the awarding bodies, which may take seven to nine months to develop the qualifications.”
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