Today, Bath Rugby Foundation’s Alternative Learning Hub welcomed England Hockey for a day of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) training. The session aimed to provide hockey coaches with valuable lessons on how to deliver inclusive sessions, ensuring that sport is accessible to all, regardless of ability or background.

Throughout the day, the coaches engaged in a range of activities designed to challenge perceptions and promote inclusive practices. The training was led by our Inclusion and Diversity Officer, who shared key insights on team building and how to embed inclusion at the heart of coaching. A particular focus was placed on how sporting values can be used to create an environment where neurodivergent individuals feel welcomed and supported.

The practical element of the day saw the coaches take part in rugby sessions led by our Community Manager, highlighting strategies for making sport accessible to everyone. By stepping outside their comfort zones and immersing themselves in new approaches, the coaches gained first-hand experience of how inclusive coaching can positively impact engagement and participation.

Our Alternative Learning Coach, Liam, and Community and Assets Assistant, Jaz, were on hand to help with the sessions, along with our Casual Coach, Todd. All three were past students of Bath Rugby Foundation and used their voices to answer questions on how the Foundation helped them feel included. Their insights provided powerful examples of the impact inclusive coaching can have on individuals' confidence and development.

One of the standout moments of the day came during a thought-provoking activity led by our Inclusion and Diversity Officer. Drawing inspiration from Isaac Newton’s quote, “We build too many walls and not enough bridges,” the coaches worked in teams to construct physical bridges capable of holding weight. The task sparked meaningful discussions on the importance of breaking down barriers and adapting coaching methods to suit the needs of all participants. Each coach took something different from the exercise, reflecting on how varying perspectives can shape more inclusive coaching approaches.

Our Alternative Learning Manager facilitated discussions on the coaches’ initial concerns about stepping into unfamiliar territory. The session explored how fear of the unknown can often create hesitation but emphasised that by fostering an inclusive mindset, we can adapt and create environments that cater to everyone’s needs. By the end of the day, the coaches expressed a significant shift in their thinking, recognising the power of inclusive coaching in making sport more accessible.

The day was a fantastic opportunity to share best practices and highlight the importance of inclusivity in sport. Bath Rugby Foundation is proud to support initiatives that create positive change, and we look forward to seeing the impact of today’s training as England Hockey continues to develop its inclusive coaching approach.