A journey through safeguarding, social values, and sustainability in sports

Last Friday marked another successful instalment of our Skills Festival at Aspire Training Solutions, where we embarked on a journey of learning and growth across multiple critical areas in sports - from safeguarding and social values to sustainability, wrapping up with an invigorating session of Outdoor Adventurous Activities (OAA).

Safeguarding and social values
The day began on a reflective note, as we delved deep into the essential topic of 'prevent strategies' from a safeguarding standpoint. Reviewing the apprentices' reflective logs paved the way for an enriching discussion, allowing us to assess our progress and areas for improvement. Supplementing this was an insightful look into regional prevent updates, drawing from recent news stories which have directly affected our community and the broader sports sector.

The conversation then filtered through the vital issue of safeguarding scenarios. These simulations not only tested our theoretical knowledge but also refined our practical response skills, ensuring we're well-equipped to create a safe and supportive environment for all athletes and participants in our coaching realms.

Transitioning from safeguarding, we engaged in a thought-provoking debate: What is Social Value? This discussion pushed us to consider how individuals and organisations alike can foster a more socially aware approach to their values. Understanding the impact of our actions on the community and larger society is crucial, and our apprentices showcased remarkable insight and maturity in navigating these complex topics.

A highlight of our morning session was exploring the concept of sustainability in sports, with the Forest Green Rovers Football Club serving as an inspiring case study. This segment illuminated the pathways through which sports organisations can contribute to the health of our planet, affirming the role sports can play in promoting environmental stewardship.

Practical Coaching Skills in OAA
After a morning filled with engaging discussions and critical thinking, the afternoon session shifted our focus to the great outdoors. We explored practical coaching skills through Outdoor Adventurous Activity (OAA), a hands-on experience that not only bolstered our coaching toolkit but also reminded us of the joy and freedom sports can offer.

Through a variety of games designed for OAA, we explored how these activities could be integrated into coaching roles, emphasising team building, leadership, and personal development. This session proved to be a splendid encounter with the practical side of sports education, reinforcing the importance of an experiential learning approach.

Looking forward
As we reflect on the day's events, we're reminded of the power of sports as a vehicle for education, personal growth, and societal change. The Skills Festival offered a comprehensive overview of the issues within the sports sector, from safeguarding and social responsibility to environmental sustainability.

These discussions and activities are not just isolated events; they're stepping stones towards a more inclusive, safe, and sustainable sports culture. We thank all our apprentices for their enthusiastic participation, insightful contributions, and unwavering commitment to making sports a force for good.

Let's carry forward the lessons learned and continue to inspire, motivate, and educate both on and off the field. The journey of learning never stops, and we're excited to see where it takes us next.