The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) invites applications for the Advanced Coaching Course 2026/27 the highest level of community coaching development available in Wales. This prestigious programme is designed for coaches who aspire to operate at the very highest standards, influence others, and play a leading role in the future of the game.
The WRU Advanced Coaching Course is more than an accreditation. It is a selective, immersive development journey that challenges coaches to refine their leadership, evolve their coaching craft, and deepen their impact within their environments.
Underpinned by the principles of Connection, Reflection, and Exposure, the programme bridges the gap between sustained success in community rugby and elite‑level thinking.
Participants will attend three compulsory in‑person contact days, delivered through dynamic and interactive learning experiences. These sessions are designed to challenge perspectives, stimulate discussion, and extend understanding beyond traditional coaching frameworks.
The programme is enriched by contributions from highly experienced guest speakers who have operated at the forefront of the community game.
Their insight spans leadership, personal development, collaboration, and the continual progression of coaching practice.
A cornerstone of the course is the development and delivery of a comprehensive Individual Development Plan (IDP).
This process places the coach firmly at the centre of their own learning, encouraging honest reflection, critical evaluation, and purposeful action. Each IDP is tailored to the individual’s coaching context and long‑term aspirations, ensuring relevance and meaningful impact.
To support this journey, candidates are assigned a dedicated WRU Coach Mentor for the duration of the programme. This mentor will provide structured support, observe practice within the coaching environment, and offer informed challenge and guidance.
The mentoring relationship is collaborative, reflective, and focused on sustained improvement—ensuring learning is applied, evaluated, and embedded.
The WRU Advanced Coaching Course is intended for coaches who demonstrate:
• A strong growth mindset, with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement
• High emotional intelligence, including the ability to build effective cultures, foster relationships, and lead people effectively
• Clear ambition within Welsh rugby, with a desire to contribute positively to the game at community, performance, or pathway level
Successful applicants will recognise their responsibility as leaders and custodians of Welsh rugby and will be motivated to raise standards within their clubs, organisations, and communities.
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Currently coaching within a recognised club, school, university, WRU pathway or community organisation in Wales
• A minimum of two years’ active coaching experience since obtaining their Level 2 coaching qualification
• Evidence of sustained engagement in continuing professional development
• Demonstrated commitment to applying high‑performance behaviours within their coaching environment
• Availability to attend all scheduled programme dates
The course is season long in duration and uses a blended learning model, including:
• Three full contact days covering leadership, self, people, and coaching craft
• Supported Mentorship Programme with a WRU coach mentor (minimum 8 visits)
• Applied coaching assignments within the coach’s own environment
• Peer learning communities to encourage collaboration, reflection, and shared learning
• Final assessment, including presentation of an impact project and reflective portfolio
Key Dates
• Applications open: 1 May 2026
• Application deadline: 30 June 2026
• Selection confirmed: 31 July 2026
Programme Dates
• Induction Evening: 16 September 2026 (7:00pm)
• Contact Day 1: 27 September 2026 (All Day – Venue TBC)
• Contact Day 2: 10 January 2027 (All Day – Venue TBC)
• Contact Day 3: 28 March 2027 (All Day – Venue TBC)
Apply Now
Places on the WRU Advanced Coaching Course are limited, and selection standards are intentionally high.
If you are committed to your own professional development and motivated to make a lasting contribution to Welsh rugby, we encourage you to apply.
Go to Advance Coaching Course for more details
Take the next step in your coaching journey.