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BF Coaching Journey & Qualifications > Advanced Coaching Programme (ACP)

Programme Overview:

BF’s Advanced Coaching Programme (ACP) is designed to empower coaches in their professional journey. This immersive experience encourages the development of a personal coaching philosophy, reflective practice, and core values. Participants will also explore key areas such as:

  • Performance planning
  • Athlete development
  • Season structuring
  • Skill acquisition
  • Session design
  • The coach-athlete pathway and the responsibilities within it

The programme offers a rich blend of theory and practical application, helping coaches deepen their understanding and elevate their impact.

Who is it for?

This programme is ideal for coaches who are committed to evolving their holistic coaching approach. Whether you’re working at grassroots level or within performance environments, if you’re actively engaged in your own development, BF is here to support you every step of the way.

We welcome applicants from across the coaching community who are ready to challenge their thinking, refine their practice, and grow in a collaborative learning environment.

Ongoing Support

Throughout the programme, you’ll receive personalised guidance from experienced Coach Developers.

Additionally, you’ll benefit from insights and resources drawn from across the UK’s High-Performance System, ensuring your learning is aligned with the latest standards and best practices.

Application and Screening Process

This pathway is designed to guide fencing coaches through a reflective and developmental journey before joining the Advanced Coach Programme. Each step builds on the last, encouraging deeper insight and preparation.

Image outlining the screening process for the Advanced Coaching Programme 24/25

Step 1: Coaching Philosophy Vlog

  • Task: Create a 2–3 minute video
  • Content: Outline your personal coaching philosophy and share your CV
  • Purpose: Showcase your values, style, and experience in a concise, engaging format.

Step 2: Initial Discussion

  • Duration: 45–60 minutes
  • With: Dusty Miller or Chris Turner
  • Purpose: Introductory conversation to explore your coaching background and aspirations.

Step 3: Follow-Up Discussion

  • Duration: 45–60 minutes
  • With: Dusty Miller or Chris Turner
  • Purpose: A deeper dive into your coaching approach, challenges, and readiness for the programme.

Step 4: Development Plan

  • Task: Complete your Individual Coach Development Plan
  • Purpose: Identify growth areas, set goals, and map out your coaching journey.

Step 5: Values Exploration

  • Task: Reflect on and articulate your core values
  • Purpose: Ensure alignment with the programme’s ethos: Honesty, Respect, Excellence

Step 6: Outcome

    • Accepted onto the Advanced Coach Programme
    • Or: Deferred for further development

Cohort 4 Dates - Intake October to December 2025

Applications for the next intake, called Cohort Four, opened on 13th of October 2025 and closed Monday 15th December 2025, 5pm. 

The dates for Cohort Four are below. Candidates are kindly reminded that they are expected to attend all dates, for the best experience and qualify for Graduation.

Day 1)  Friday 8th May 2026

Day 2)  Friday 10th July 2026

Day 3)  Friday 4th September 2026

Day 4)  Friday 30th October 2026

Day 5)  Friday 8th January 2027

How can I apply?

Applications for Cohort Four are now closed.

If you can’t participate in this year’s ACP cohort but are interested in the programme, please register your interest via the button below:

REGISTER INTEREST

Fencing and Boxing coaches standing together exploring coaching practice

Images courtesy of Sian Hughes Pollitt.

Last updated 3 Aug 2026