The benefits of the Coach Core apprenticeship scheme

The Coach Core apprenticeship scheme is proving to be a life-changing opportunity for many young people who want to build a career in sports coaching. 

One such individual is 23-year-old Aaron Bishop, who has shared his inspiring journey through the programme and its significant impact on his career. A recent career highlight was winning the Graduate of the Year Award at the national Coach Core Awards 2025.

Taking the first step

Initially, three years ago, an apprenticeship wasn’t on the radar. “I kind of wasn’t looking at apprenticeships,” he admitted. However, after being introduced to the opportunity by Loretta Lock at Defiant Sports in Eastbourne, he decided to give it a go. 

“I had a look into it, and I was like, that looks really good, so I’ll have a go.”

This chance led to invaluable experiences within Defiant Sports, where he had already been involved in sports sessions. 

His background in scouting and sports made him a natural fit, and the apprenticeship provided the structure and development to turn passion into a profession.

Learning and growth

A key advantage of the apprenticeship was the wide range of topics covered, providing an in-depth understanding of coaching beyond just practical experience. 

“I did learn a lot from it,” Aaron said. “I don’t think I found it as hard as some of the other apprentices in my cohort, but that’s probably because I had been coaching for a few years before.”

However, the programme still expanded his knowledge significantly. “There were a lot of subjects that I wasn’t really aware of, and it opened my eyes up. Instead of my narrow mindset of coaching, I realised there’s a lot more to it.” 

The structured nature of the course also made it accessible. 

“It was very easy to get through,” he said. “Everything that you needed to learn was there, so there were no questions about what you needed to do.”

Why choose an apprenticeship?

For those unsure about their next steps after college, an apprenticeship in sports coaching offers a compelling alternative. 

“If you are looking to do sport, I think an apprenticeship is one of the best ways to go about it,” states Aaron. “You’re learning how to progress in coaching, and you’re getting paid for it—so that’s always a bonus.”

Beyond financial benefits, the programme provides hands-on experience that allows apprentices to test the waters of the industry. 

“After a few months, you can really see if this is something you want to carry on doing,” he says.

Even if apprentices later decide to pursue a different path, the skills gained are highly transferable. 

“There’s a lot of networking, learning about managing people, dealing with behaviour issues—so a lot of the skills can be transferred into other jobs if you find that sport isn’t what you want to do.”

Expanding opportunities and recognition

Through the programme, Aaron has worked on exciting projects, such as Play Their Way and the Tim Henman Foundation initiatives, bringing sports to special education schools and communities.

His success within the apprenticeship scheme has also led to personal achievements, including winning the Graduate of the Year category in the 2025 Coach Core Awards.

“It was a surprise. I didn’t even realise I got put forward for it,” Aaron said. “Then finding out I was one of the finalists – it was good. You never really expect to get rewarded or praised for what you do. I’m just doing it because I like doing it.”

The path to leadership

One of the key benefits of the Coach Core apprenticeship is the opportunities it offers. 

After completing the programme, Aaron has now taken on a mentoring role. “From doing the apprenticeship, I’m now the mentor for other coaches going through the apprenticeship.”

Since taking on the role of mentoring Defiant Sport Coach Core apprentices, last year Aaron delivered a high-quality inclusion training workshop for apprentices and employers, to improve confidence and competence to provide positive experiences to disabled participants.

He will deliver another inclusion workshop for the third Coach Core Sussex cohort in March.

This transition into leadership highlights how the scheme equips apprentices with the skills to grow into management roles. 

“That’s another thing—while doing the apprenticeship, I was able to get more hours into the work, and then I’ve been able to get a bigger role within the company.”

Advice for future apprentices

For anyone considering an apprenticeship, Aaron’s advice is simple: “Just go for it. There’s no harm in giving it a go, and you never know what will come from it.”

The Coach Core apprenticeship scheme is more than just a qualification—it’s a gateway to a rewarding career, personal growth, and opportunities that extend beyond the sports industry. 

Whether looking to build a career in coaching or develop transferable skills, this programme offers a fantastic start for young people ready to take the leap.