Career in Sports Development

Sports Development has evolved dramatically over the past decade. The positive social benefits, such as the role sport plays in social inclusion and crime reduction, have long been advocated. As recent research continues to identify this, sport has shot up the government agenda, and as a result Sports Development has shifted from a little known `niche' profession to a fully fledged career, with most Local Authorities now employing at least one Sports Development Officer.

Despite this notable increase in opportunities, Sports Development remains fiercely competitive and getting onto that first rung of the ladder can be very difficult. This is due to the nature of the work, which demands experience above anything else. Listed below are hints and tips on how to obtain the necessary experience and qualifications:

1. Get a degree in Sport / Leisure

The majority of positions will request a degree, or equivalent in a related subject. Whilst specific Sports Development degrees are becoming readily available, this is often not specified, and a general degree in Sport / Leisure Management / Sports Business, etc will be sufficient. Entry without a degree is uncommon, but not impossible however. It would be dependent on related experience in a leisure context.

2. Take advantage of any work experience opportunities

Often, colleges, universities or schools will offer work placements with Local Authority Sports Development Officers as part of a course. This is invaluable experience and you should take advantage of any opportunity that arises. If your university or college does not offer such placements, then contact your local Sports Development Officer yourself and find out about the work experience opportunities they offer. Whilst this work is often unpaid, it will allow you to get that first, crucial `foot in the door'.

3. Gain as much experience as possible whilst a student

Try to find work on holiday programmes, which are available in this country or abroad (e.g. - Camp America). Experience in planning and organising a range of sporting activities will stand you in very good stead, and seasonal student work as a coach, or `group leader' are excellent at providing those opportunities.

4. Gain a range of coaching qualifications

As well as allowing you to get involved in various sporting programmes and initiatives, coaching qualifications demonstrate a commitment and dedication to sport. Working with coaches is a vital part of a Sports Development Officers work, and therefore an understanding of coaching issues is vital.

5. Talk to someone who does the job you are interested in

Ring your local council to find out if anyone has some spare time to offer you any advice, or update you on the most recent initiatives. You could also make an appointment to see a careers adviser for more specific information about jobs and training.

6. Ensure you are up-to-date with relevant sports development initiatives and programmes

An insight into current sporting issues, as well as appropriate political awareness is very important. Check out the Sport England website - www.sportengland.org for information on the national programmes. You can also download a copy of the `Government's Strategy for Sport' from the DCMS (Dept of Culture, Media & Sport) website - www.culture.gov.uk

7. Research job opportunities

Request application packs, and look at person specifications for the posts to see what sort of skills, experience and knowledge employers are looking for.

8. Most importantly, get involved in the developmental side of sport

What this means is that you shouldn't just content yourself with coaching on a particular programme, or within a club. Actually get involved in the development of the club / programme, possibly by promoting it in schools, running after-school clubs, or simply offering your own views and advice. Volunteering for major events such as the Commonwealth Games, your regional Youth Games, or events run by your Local Authority will provide you with valuable experience of on-the-job training.

Sports Development Officer - Job Details

The structure and role of sports development teams vary greatly from local authority to local authority but a common theme to all is the provision, promotion, development and management of sustainable opportunities for all sections of the community to participate in sport and leisure activities.

Work Environment - Although office based as the majority of the work is of an outreach nature much time is spent at other local authority offices in sports and community centres, schools, playing fields etc.

Daily Activities - There is no such thing as a normal working day for a Sports Development Officer.

Although many jobs are technically 9 am - 5.30 pm by the nature of the work evening and weekend working is necessary. The work is extremely varied but includes:

Skills & Interests - You need:

an interest and ability in sport in general

Entry Requirements - There are no minimum entry requirements as jobs vary greatly from lower graded "hands on" to senior SDO’s. If you wish to progress, degree level education is probably now essential, as are National Governing Body Coaching qualifications and first aid qualifications. Holiday jobs as coaches/leaders are often available and give an insight into the job and experience, as do work placements. Professional support and development is available through the relevant Regional Sports Development Association and a national SDA is expected to be launched in the near future.

Estimated salary range - £15,000 - £24,000

Qualifications and Training

Whether you have a small amount of experience and/or qualifications or a lot, there is something in local government for you! The following information gives you an idea of the kind of qualification and training initiatives that may be available:

National/Scottish Vocational Qualifications (N/SVQs)N/SVQs are work-based qualifications, based on National Occupational Standards (NOS), which are awarded to students who provide evidence of competence in work situations. N/SVQs are not time limited or age restricted and are taken by employees. Assessment takes place in the workplace and there are 5 N/SVQ levels ranging from fairly routine competencies at level 1 up to much more complex, technical or professional work activities at level 5. There are no exams, although some formal learning may be needed if there are skills gaps.

Modern Apprenticeships (MAs)

New Deal for young people, part of the Government's Welfare to Work programme, is targeted at 18-24 year olds who have been unemployed for six months or more. The aim of New Deal is to improve a young person's employability by offering subsidised employment and training opportunities.Local councils all over the country are getting involved in the New Deals and actively promote opportunities.Further information can be found at www.newdeal.gov.uk

Graduate Training SchemesLocal government is one of the largest graduate employers in the country. Graduates are taken on by all councils in all service areas and can complete professional training while working. Some councils are developing individual graduate training programmes in many different occupational areas, as well as general fast-track schemes in management.

Graduate apprenticeships

Work experience placements
A strong academic background and CV no longer guarantee you a job in today's competitive market. You also need important key skills that can only be gained from work experience. Whether you are at school, college or university, finding work experience is crucial if you want to present yourself as an attractive prospect to possible future employers.What does work experience help you do?

·Develop valuable transferable skills such as administration, communication and organisation, which all employers are looking for.·Make important decisions about the kind of career you are considering for the future.·Gain specialist knowledge in certain areas.