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⚽ FA Introduction to Coaching Football (Level 1) – In Depth Overview



The FA Introduction to Coaching Football – previously known as FA Level 1 – is the perfect launchpad for anyone beginning their coaching journey. Whether you're supporting your child’s grassroots team or aspiring to climb the professional ladder, this course provides you with the confidence, knowledge, and structure to get started the right way.


"You don’t need to have played the game to teach the game. You just need the heart to inspire others."

🎓 Course Structure at a Glance


  • 💻 Delivered 100% online

  • 🧠 Self-paced learning (12–15 hours over ~6 weeks)

  • 🗣️ Live virtual classrooms with FA tutors

  • 🌍 Access to England Football's Coach Community

  • ✅ Includes safeguarding and first steps into football philosophy


"Great coaches aren't born — they’re developed through learning, listening, and leading."

🧩 What You’ll Learn – Module by Module


🔒 Creating Safe, Fun and Inclusive Environments


This is the foundation of the course. You’ll learn how to:


  • Create sessions that are safe and enjoyable

  • Understand and act on safeguarding responsibilities

  • Welcome players of all backgrounds and abilities


“Happy players learn best. Safe environments grow the game.”

🧬 The England DNA – Building a Coaching Identity


Explore the FA’s national coaching framework:


  • Develop your own values and coaching style

  • Understand the England DNA and its five key elements

  • Learn the importance of a player-centred approach


🧠 Focus: The Whole Player – Technical, Tactical, Physical, Psychological, and Social development.


🧠 Planning and Delivering Sessions


Get hands-on with session design:


  • Learn how to use the STEP principle (Space, Task, Equipment, People)

  • Design engaging, age-appropriate training plans

  • Develop flexible session structures with warm-ups, core activities, and wrap-ups


📋 Includes ready-made templates and example sessions to inspire you.


🧒 Understanding Your Players


To coach effectively, you must understand who you’re coaching:


  • Learn to adapt communication to suit different age groups

  • Recognise developmental stages of young players

  • Build confidence, creativity, and resilience in your team


“It’s not just about coaching footballers. It’s about developing people.”

🎯 Coaching Through Games


Game-based learning is the heartbeat of modern coaching:


  • Use small-sided games to teach decision-making

  • Keep players active, involved, and learning

  • Turn mistakes into learning moments in real-time


🕹️ Practical tip: Make your sessions look and feel like the game!


📈 Next Steps in Your Coaching Journey


Wrap up with a roadmap for development:


  • Learn about the FA Level 2 / UEFA C Licence

  • Discover CPD opportunities and mentor programmes

  • Reflect on your coaching philosophy and long-term goals


“Coaching is a journey — and this is only the first exciting step.”

🤝 Why This Qualification Matters


Completing the FA’s Introduction to Coaching Football shows that you’re serious about doing things the right way — prioritising development, inclusion, and enjoyment over just winning.

You’ll leave the course with:


✅ A clear coaching philosophy

✅ Practical session ideas

✅ A toolkit for safe, effective coaching

✅ Confidence to lead your team, your way


🌍 Work with a Coach Who’s Been There


Steve Halls is an FA qualified football coach offering consultancy, talent identification, mentoring and player representation in Cheshunt and the surrounding areas. In today’s connected world, Steve can offer his services to players, clubs, and organisations across the globe. Whether you're local or international, you’ll benefit from a coach who brings grassroots knowledge with global insight.











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