A select group of ambitious coaches with aspirations to work at the highest level of the game will be given an exciting opportunity to take their next step on their coaching pathway, with the launch of the Scottish FA's new Elite Coaches Development Programme, which gets underway next month. 

Highly technical in nature, the inaugural course will be fully-funded by the Scottish FA, with the small group of applicants being selected based on potential and the strength of their ambition to reach the elite level.

The programme will go in-depth on a number of key topics, including coaching methodology, performance psychology, tactical analysis, communication skills,  physical performance and periodisation.

Although the course is not UEFA accredited, it is designed to compliment the existing Coach Education provision and provide an enhanced offering for young aspiring coaches that want to accelerate their development.

Potential candidates can apply here until Friday, 23 August at 5pm, with the first meet-up for the successful applicants scheduled for Monday, 23 September. 

The course will consist of 12 two-day gatherings over the next year.

Candidates will be selected on the basis of demonstrated dedication, potential and ambition rather than simply qualifications or CV, although coaches should possess two of the following as a minimum requirement:

  • Demonstrable experience in the game
  • Degree in sport-related subject
  • UEFA B Licence
  • UEFA B Youth Licence
  • Advanced Children’s Licence

Andrew Gould, Chief Football officer, Scottish FA: "This exciting initiative is something we have been working towards and we are extremely pleased to be able to now invite applications. Although this 12-month programme may be intense and should not be taken lightly, the packed schedule should allow technical aspects of the game to be analysed in greater detail than other awards which may cover a broader spectrum.

"We all want to see our coaches working at the highest possible level - whether that is in management, in coaching or in other roles within football departments - and we believe that this course will provide a unique opportunity for this small selected group to accelerate their development towards the elite level.

"The Scottish FA have decided to fully fund the award, to underscore our belief in the selected candidates' potential and to outline our commitment to helping the next generation of coaches in Scotland. We are excited to now welcome the applications and anticipate a competitive selection process."

Potential candidates can read more about the course by clicking here.