Introducing the New Level 1 BIS Grassroots Coach Qualification

British Ice Skating (BIS) is proud to announce the launch of the new Level 1 Grassroots Coach Qualification — a major step forward in the redevelopment of our coaching pathway - with applications opening on April 27th 2026.

This exciting new qualification builds on the foundations of the Assistant Coach award and marks the next stage in a coach’s journey, enabling successful learners to coach independently up to Novice level.

The new Level 1 Grassroots qualification comes as part of our coaching pathway redevelopment which began in 2023 and aims to create a modern, transparent, and sustainable framework that supports participation at grassroots level while strengthening long-term performance development. Find out more about the pathway review.

Here's everything you need to know about the new qualification:

Designed for Accessibility

A key priority of the new pathway is widening access to coaching.

Entry requirements for the Level 1 Grassroots qualification have been updated to better reflect the practical skills needed at this stage. Applicants are now only required to hold National 4 standard (singles or ice dance), or equivalent — making the qualification more achievable for aspiring coaches without compromising quality.

A High-Quality, Supportive Learning Experience

The Level 1 Grassroots Coach Qualification has been carefully designed to deliver a comprehensive and engaging learning journey that reflects the latest ice skating knowledge and aligns with current industry standards.

Learners will benefit from:

-  A blend of theoretical and practical learning 

-  Extensive, professionally developed course materials

-  Access to BIS’s e-learning platform, featuring a wide range of development modules

-  Expert-led workshops delivered by leading coaches with national and international experience

-  Increased support and structured contact throughout the course

What You’ll Achieve

On completion of the Level 1 Grassroots qualification, coaches will be fully equipped to:

-  Independently deliver, and earn income from, coaching sessions for individuals, groups, and synchronised skating below Novice level

-  Support higher-level coaches working with Novice and above skaters

-  Begin working towards a Level 2 coaching qualification (details on our new Level 2 qualification are due to be released in Spring/Summer 2027).

This qualification provides a strong, professional foundation for those looking to build a long-term coaching career within ice skating.

Return on Investment

The Level 1 Grassroots Coach Qualification is priced at £995 per person, reflecting the significant investment in content, delivery, and learner support.

The course fee includes:

-  Your first year of coaching licence upon qualification

-  All written and practical assessments 

-  Expert-led educational workshops tailored to course requirements, including additional CPD opportunities.

-  Multiple development courses via the BIS e-learning platform

-  Newly updated modules aligned with current best practice in coaching 

This all-inclusive approach ensures learners receive a premium learning experience with no hidden costs.

How to Apply

Applications will open on Monday 27^th April. Applications made before this date will not be processed. Eligibility: To apply, learners must be a BIS member at a National 4 skating standard (singles or ice dance), or equivalent and have held the BIS Assistant Coach (or the previous Level 1 Assistant Coach) qualification for at least 6 months. Application Process:

-  Download and complete the Coach Qualification application form.

-  Log in to your Sport80 account 

-  Click 'Coach Applications'

-  Click 'Add Coach Application'

-  Follow the on screen prompts. You will need your mentor's details (including their BIS No. and email address) and your completed application form by clicking "important forms & guidance". Please note, your mentor will need to sign your application form.

-  Once processed and approved you will be notified to pay for the application. Your place is not secured until payment is received.

Start Your Coaching Journey

The new Level 1 Grassroots Coach Qualification represents a significant step forward for coaching in UK ice skating — combining accessibility, expert-led education, and outstanding value.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your coaching journey, this qualification offers the skills, experience, and support needed to succeed!

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I completed the previous BIS Level 1 qualification – why is my next step not called Level 2?

As part of the pathway redevelopment, BIS has updated qualification titles to better reflect the content, responsibilities, and outcomes at each stage. While naming conventions have changed, moving onto the new Level 1 Grassroots Coach qualification will still represent a significant step forward in your coaching journey, both in terms of course content and what you will be qualified to coach on point of completion.

How long will the qualification take to complete, and how will it be delivered?

Completing the Level 1 Grassroots qualification is expected to take learners between 12-24 months, allowing flexibility to balance learning alongside other commitments. Much of the delivery will be virtual or completed at a learner’s home rink, though a few in-person days for learning, workshops and assessments will be required which may require travel. These dates will be made available shortly.