Coaching in the Foundation Phase 5-12 (Short Course)
Inspire. Develop. Thrive.
This dynamic short course is designed for coaches who want to build thriving environments and inspire young players in the Foundation Phase. Led by Rob Porter, acclaimed author of The Golden Age of Learning, the course explores the art and science of developing confident, creative players — and the environments that help them fall in love with the game.
Course Content:
📚 Course Reading:
Available Upon Start of Course
🎥 Lesson 1: Creating the Environment — The Power of Psycho-Social Corners in the Foundation Phase
Recorded Lesson: sent to participants - 30 Nov 2025
A positive learning environment is the foundation of lasting player development. In this lesson, we explore how to create spaces that nurture joy, confidence, and belonging.
Learning outcomes:
• Understand why creating the right environment is vital for young players.
• Identify the key ingredients that make an environment engaging and positive.
• Explore the influence of the psychological corner in early player development.
• Develop strategies to become an effective social corner coach.
🎥 Lesson 2: Foundation Phase Player Development and Coaching Considerations
Recorded Lesson: sent to participants - 7 Dec 2025
At the heart of great coaching lies the ability to develop well-rounded players who love the game. This lesson focuses on understanding players’ needs and using the right coaching tools to help them grow.
Learning outcomes:
• Recognize the importance of fostering a lifelong love for the game and the ball.
• Learn how to develop balanced, adaptable, and creative young players.
• Explore different types of coaching interventions — and when to apply them.
• Understand how language and coaching depth shape learning experiences.
🎥 Lesson 3: Foundation Phase Practice Design and Matchdays
Recorded Lesson: sent to participants - 14 Dec 2025
Designing purposeful, engaging practices is key to connecting training with performance. This lesson looks at how to balance repetition with realism and make matchdays a true extension of learning.
Learning outcomes:
• Find the right balance between repetition and realism in practice design.
• Apply the STEP principle to achieve targeted learning outcomes.
• Plan matchdays that deliver real development opportunities.
• Master effective team talks and matchday coaching approaches.
-----
💻 Lesson 4: Live (and recorded!) Zoom-based Q&A Workshop with Rob & Ray
6:30pm (UK) - 21 Dec 2025
-----
About the Presenter — Rob Porter
Rob Porter is an internationally respected coach educator and the author of The Golden Age of Learning, a ground-breaking exploration of how children develop through sport. Known for his engaging storytelling and practical insights, Rob blends research, experience, and passion to help coaches unlock every child’s potential. His work continues to influence coaching practice across academies, schools, and grassroots environments around the world.