Coaching neurodivergent athletes

This course is designed to improve the knowledge and understanding for anyone working with neurodivergent athletes in sport and exercise settings or with an interest in coaching neurodiverse athletes. Within the sport and exercise sector this may include those in coaching roles, as well as fitness instructors, personal trainers and wider exercise professionals. Throughout this course when referring to neurodivergent athletes this will include athletes who may not be aware of a condition.

Throughout the course you will gain a unique insight into the lives of athletes, coaches and families to understand what it means to be neurodivergent and how this can influence participation and athletic development. You will apply theory to practice in a range of sport and exercise settings to begin to consider how you can shape your own coaching practice to support athletes with a neurodiverse condition. Although the audience is specifically those working or intending to work with neurodivergent athletes the course may also have some interest for others working with neurodiversity in different settings.

The content of the course is not designed to elicit difficult emotions in any way, but we recognise that sometimes covering emotive topics like this means some learners may be reminded of challenging past personal experiences, or experiences of those close to them. Identifying sources of support and self-care can be really useful for your wellbeing whether you are a coach, athlete or student, so you might want to do this at regular points during the course. If at any time you feel uncomfortable during the course try taking some time away, invest time in some self-care strategies, and return to the course when you feel comfortable.