Formed in 1983, on the instigation of the Sports Council who provided a grant of £3750, our County Association initially had 8

coaches - appointed by both the Norfolk County Bowls Association and English Bowls Association.

By a process of 'energetic' encouragement and 'instructors' under the direction of the English Bowls Coaching Scheme, numbers

of Norfolk Coaches rose to over 90 and have fluctuated ever since to about 60 currently registered (and, therefore, insured).

Progress from 'trainee' coach through Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 can be achieved based on experience, examination and rigorous live

testing in line with accreditation from Sport England. Level 3 (senior) coaches are also expected to obtain a suitable first-aid

certificate and are DBS checked if coaching under 18's and/or other vulnerable people.

Grade 4 (National Coach) is examined and appointed by the English Bowls Coaches Society (EBCS) Director of Coaching.

In the main (but not exclusively) we operate from indoor bowling centres. Over the years our association, which is self-funding,

has bought and supplied in excess of 100 sets of bowls with which to teach beginners.

Governed by a small elected committee of volunteers we aim to offer support, training and a sense of community to bowls

coaches throughout the county. Whilst every bowler is unique with their own capabilities (both mental and physical) we aim for

a consistent and inclusive level of coaching for all, no matter what their background, orientation or ethnicity.

Trainee coaches (unbadged) are taught and supervised by a Graded Coach until they are ready to take a written exam and a

practical ”on green” exam. When successful they become Grade 1 (Black Badge) they are Insured and if dealing with under18’s,

they must be DBS checked.

Having completed at least 200 coaching hours, level 1 coaches can apply for Grade 2 (Blue Badge) Club Coach. Passing practical

and Written examinations achieve this.

After a few hundred coaching hours, Grade 3 (Green Badge) Senior Coach can be attempted.

This is obtained by passing a 7 part National Examination of both written and practical elements; National Coaches carry these

out. A first aid Certificate is required of coaches at this level.

Grade 4 is a National Coach and is appointed and examined by the Director of Coaching.

As you will see we are very structured in our approach to “Coaching” and provide coaching for anyone from the age of 8 years,

beginner right through to County Bowlers and beyond.

Become a Coach

There are three ways in which the initial application to become a Bowls Coach can be made to the County Coach (See Officers)

1. Your Club be it indoor, outdoor, short mat or carpet can recommend you.

2. One of the qualified Coaches within your club or area can do so on your behalf

3. You can make a personal application

On Receipt of your application you will be asked to fill in a form with your details including any “Teaching” Experience.

The present overall cost is £25 including necessary handbooks and training materials.

You will then be allocated a Qualified Coach to help you through the learning process.

In time you will be given a practical assessment test and a written examination. When you have successfully passed these you

will become a Grade 1 Coach.