Coach Education Week Returns to Hertfordshire

Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership (HSP) will host the annual Coach Education Week programme between Monday 16th and Sunday 22nd February 2026. This year’s programme will feature an expanded range of in-person and online courses, with both paid and free opportunities available throughout. The weeklong initiative provides sport coaches and physical activity deliverers with valuable opportunities to enhance their skills, broaden their knowledge and gain recognised qualifications.

Coach Education Week began in 2008 when the late David Wray, then a HSP Board member, secured investment from Hertfordshire County Council to support his vision of harnessing the power of sport to improve the life chances of young people across Hertfordshire.

With David’s early leadership—and the ongoing support of current HSP Chair, Mervyn Morgan—the annual programme has continued to flourish. Reflecting on its legacy and impact, HSP Partnership Director, John O’Callaghan, said:

“We remain deeply grateful to David Wray for his unwavering belief in the transformational potential of sport. His passion and commitment laid the foundations for what Coach Education Week has become today. As we look ahead to the 2026 programme, we continue to be inspired by David’s vision and proud to see how it has evolved to meet the needs of coaches and communities nearly two decades on.”

This year’s schedule will feature over 30 courses covering key areas including mental health, nutrition, inclusive delivery, long-term health conditions and managing challenging behaviour. Safeguarding remains a central focus, aligning with Sport England’s continued investment in strengthening welfare standards across the sector. In addition, in celebration of Hertfordshire’s Year of Disability Sport & Physical Activity campaign: No Limits 2026, several sessions will spotlight the experiences and contributions of coaches with a disability or those delivering to disabled participants.

Charlie Mann, Senior Clubs and Workforce Lead, said, “To see Coach Education Week return for its 18th year is a testament to its relevance and impact. The programme continues to grow in scope and reputation, offering learning opportunities that reflect the evolving needs of today’s coaching workforce. The variety we’re able to offer demonstrates the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to supporting coaches across Hertfordshire.”

With more than 1,000 learning places available, Coach Education Week 2026 offers workshops and accredited qualifications designed to support coaches at every stage of their development. The programme remains a cornerstone of HSP’s workforce development efforts, ensuring coaches are equipped to inspire and engage diverse communities.

To view the full course list, please click here. If you have any questions about the programme or any of the courses, please contact Charlie Mann at c.mann3@herts.ac.uk.