Water Polo Australia launches new Learning and Development Framework

Published Wed 01 Sep 2021

Water Polo Australia (WPA) together with its State Associations, is pleased to launch the new Learning and Development Framework.

The Learning and Development Framework provides a holistic picture of the capabilities that coaches, and officials need to enable them to consistently create environments in which all athletes and developing officials they work with, thrive.

WPA CEO Richard McInnes said: “The focus of the new Learning and Development Framework keeps the athlete at the core, encouraging coaches to build a culture of deliberate and ongoing learning. We really want to shift away from coach education being seen as a compliance mechanism, to something that adds value to the participant experience and the coaches have the choice to engage in, in various ways’ McInnes said.

“While we acknowledge this is a significant change to the way in which we recognise and deliver education, it is a revision that was based on feedback from our members, combined with best practice approaches in the areas of learning and development, as well as coaching and human development.

“Assessing the effectiveness of a coach at any level is very difficult, but a key metric at most levels is retention. If players enjoy their experience with a coach, feel like they are learning, being challenged and having fun they are likely to keep playing.

“We want to ensure coaches at all levels have access to the information and resources they need to create that sort of environment for players at all levels.

“The new Framework brings together elements of the existing learning and development space that were working well and brings to life new opportunities that our members will now have access to.

“It’s also important to note that under the new membership fee structure, access to learning and development will be provided to our members at no additional cost beyond their regular membership. This will make opportunities for learning more accessible and affordable for our community, and hopefully encourage more of our players at all levels to take up coaching and refereeing” he said.

WPA has also launched the new ‘Learn’ section of its website, housing learning resources and links to courses for members to upskill and expand their knowledge. Click here to visit the 'Learn' webpage.

WPA General Manager - Learning & Development Katie Foulkes said: “It’s fantastic that we’re able to offer members this unprecedented access to learning and development opportunities.”

“There are many ways our members can tap into the learning resources and opportunities - including face-to-face workshops, online programs and resources, state based practical workshops and opportunities to share ideas and network.

“All of the current and future learning resources and opportunities will be aligned to the Framework and will also continuously evolve, with new learning tools added over time,” she said.

Watch the short video below to find out more about the Framework: