There is a growing understanding that the development of high level sporting performance and lifelong physical activity and exercise begins in childhood.
As such there is a need to apply and modify scientific principles of sport and exercise and to nurture development of children and adolescents. Consequently, there is a growing demand for highly trained specialists in the field.
This course aims to foster an evidence-based approach, connecting the science of sport and exercise to the coaching process in youth populations. We cover aspects related to youth coaching, including profiling and strength and conditioning for children and adolescents, the development of motor skills, the fundamentals of youth coaching, critical issues in youth coaching research, research skills, professional practice and global professional development. Within these areas, the science of physiology, psychology, and biomechanical factors influencing youth performance will be applied.
We aim to equip you with scientific knowledge and its application to youth development and coaching. Additionally, you will have opportunities to enhance your practical coaching skills as well as developing a range of research and transferable skills related to employment. The course aims to equip you for a variety of careers such as youth sports coaching, strength and conditioning coaching, teaching, paediatric exercise scientist, health promotion, or further postgraduate study.