We are delighted to launch our new coach development framework, designed to empower coaches to take control of their own learning journey.

Whether you’re looking to support those brand new to the game as a Squash Activator, or develop the next generation of squash stars, the new framework gives you the qualifications you need to match your ambitions.

We believe that coaching is a lifelong journey, and the new framework reflects the fact that coaches work across a range of environments, and not everyone needs or wants to follow a rigid qualification pathway.

What’s changing?

• Introduction of a new Squash Activator qualification – a one-day, hands-on qualification which aims to develop Coaching Assistants, and support parent helpers and volunteers to assist during coaching sessions
• Revamped Squash Coach Award – aligned to Qualifications Scotland standards, this course will give coaches the confidence and competence to coach alone, or as part of a team, upon completion
• Clearer guidance on who should complete which qualification type, with a new Advanced Squash Coaching Award planned for 2027/28.
• Enhanced calendar of CPD opportunities to support development of coaches in areas that matter to them.

How will it work?

Every coach has different ambitions. Rather than expecting everyone to follow the same pathway, the new framework lets you choose the qualifications and CPD that best support your goals.

If your goal is to introduce a lunchtime squash session at school – Squash Leaders is the one.

If your goal is to introduce your friends to squash – the Activator qualification is for you.

If you want to get a regular squash session going at your club – the Squash Coach Award is ideal.

With an enhanced, quality-controlled curriculum aligned to the Scottish Coaching Certificate (Level 6 – equivalent to a Scottish Higher) and practical coaching assessment, the Squash Coach Award will help raise coaching standards and improve experiences for squash players across the country.

What are the advantages of the new framework?

• Coaches can choose qualifications that best suit their ambitions.
• Five-hour on-court Squash Activator session provides the confidence to support sessions in just one day.
• Coaches completing the Squash Coach Award will gain greater confidence, knowledge and practical coaching skills, with double the on-court time, double the tutor support and support to develop a coaching action plan following the course.
• Enhanced CPD opportunities will support coaches in shaping their own lifelong learning journey.

Already coaching?

Here’s what you need to know:

• If you’re still completing a Level 1 course, please continue as normal.
• If you’re already qualified, your qualification still stands, however we would encourage Level 1 coaches to consider completing the Squash Coach Award to build on an existing Level 1 qualification and support their ongoing development as a coach.