Coaching is critical to the way that we develop and improve our players. We have a coaching structure at club, regional and national level to support all levels of players, so no matter how inexperienced or experienced you are in the sport, there is always an opportunity to learn.

Technique, tactics and mental approach can all be coached and the PE network of coaches is on hand to help.

Don’t be shy in asking for coaching input, that’s what are coaches are here for!

Category 1 : Club Coach

Teaches the primary elements in playing Petanque and its playing rules to newcomers to the sport.
Improves the skills and performance of intermediate-level club players.

Category 2 : Club Coach – Advanced

Has at least one year’s active experience as qualified Club Coach and carries out coaching activities beyond their own club, in other clubs, schools and public come-and-try sessions.

Category 3 : County Coach

Is experienced in a higher level of coaching and takes on greater responsibilities in regional and national assistance roles, beyond that of an advanced club coach. Has had training in organisational, educational, team and playing skills.

Category 3A : County Coach – Advanced

Has advanced knowledge of the theory of coaching and can:

• Prepare and present formal coaching sessions
• Explain and demonstrate tactical skills across different playing formats
• Deliver Club Coach courses, including exams and reports
• Act as Team Coach for teams at national competitions and record statistical data to analyse and improve team performance

Each of PE’s Regions has an appointed Regional Coaching Coordinator who serves as a representative member on the PE Coaching Commission.

Coaching Qualification courses are run at different venues around England and are organised depending on demand. The Club Coach course fee is £30, which includes an official PE Coach polo shirt and PE Qualification Certificate.

Level 2-3A qualifications also require certification from external bodies on subjects such as First Aid and Safeguarding.

Find out more about coaching qualification courses.

Download an application form.

The Petanque England coaching licence is an ID card that can be used when working with schools or vulnerable adults. The licence, which is only issued after DBS checking has been completed, is valid for three years and includes the coach`s membership number, their photo and their DBS clearance certificate number and expiry date.

Everyone involved at all levels of pétanque has a responsibility to promote and uphold the highest standards of behaviour in our sport and all PE Coaches agree to comply with our Coaching Code of Conduct in addition to out Member’s Code of Conduct. Coaches must also follow PE policies and processes on best practice in safeguarding vulnerable and junior members. PE policies and codes of conduct may be found here.

At the end of three years, evidence that the coach is still active is needed to maintain their coaching status and be issued with a new licence. Coaching Report Forms are used as evidence of coaching activity; these are usually forwarded to the Chair of the Coaching Commission by Regional Coaching Coordinators.

It is the policy and requirement of our Insurers that all coaches and persons dealing with junior and vulnerable members are screened by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

The cost of the DBS checks is currently £20 and is payable by the individual after we have processed their application.

For further details regarding coaching please contact the PE Coaching Commission