Coach & Officiate

There are various qualifications that those interested in boccia can undertake. These encompass coaching, officiating, ramp operating, timekeeping and lining. Here are details of some of the opportunities available.
Boccia Leaders Award

The Boccia Leaders Award provides a brief overview of knowledge, skills and abilities to introduce the game for teachers, coaches and volunteers aged 16+. It is a minimum requirement for at least one coach/volunteer to obtain the Award in order to run a recreational session (e.g. as part of a leisure centre programme, multi-sports club, holiday programme, school session etc). Boccia Leaders aged 16 and 17 should deliver sessions under supervision of another adult aged 18+.

 

Level 1 Award in Officiating Boccia

The Level 1 Award in Officiating Boccia workshop covers officiating, understanding players’ individual needs when refereeing and putting key skills into practice. Learners must be aged 16+ to enroll in the course.

 

Level 1 Boccia Coach Award

The Level 1 Boccia Coach Award focuses on planning, communication, demonstration, observation, analysis, feedback and understanding the sport. At least one coach aged 16+ must obtain this award as a minimum standard for running a club or working with developing/competing players. Coaches aged 16 and 17 should deliver sessions under supervision of another adult aged 18+.

Level 2 Boccia Coach Award

The Level 2 Award in Coaching Boccia covers technical skills, roles, responsibilities, developing physical and mental capacities, long-term planning and competition management. Coaches aged 18+ who are working with performance athletes in boccia, or who are running competitive clubs or regional squads should work towards completing this qualification.

The officiating pathway is illustrated in this graphic
The graphic shows the levels of boccia officiating qualifications - Level 1 (which allows officiating at local and regional events), Level 2 (a mentoring programme that allows refereeing at home nations events), Level 3 (a taught programme which allows refereeing at a UK level) and Level 4 (an international course that allows refereeing at international events including the Paralympic Games).
The coaching pathway is illustrated in this graphic The graphic shows the pathway for coaches. It starts with the Boccia Leaders Award which enables leading boccia activities in a recreational environment, a Level 1 coaching award designed for assistant and lead coaches. Level 2 Coaching Award for those leading clubs and working with developing athletes, and the Coach Advance Programme for coaches who are developing the sport or coaching performance athletes.
In order to protect our players, coaches, officials, other volunteers and clubs, those helping with boccia sessions and events should ensure that they are suitably qualified, hold relevant PVG membership and abide by the Code of Conduct of their club or event at all times.