All members of our Workforce Academy benefit from our package of support, development opportunities and training through Learn, Grow, Achieve. It's designed to make sure you're safe to practice, upgrade your knowledge, expand your network, and prepare you for life beyond Northumbria.
LEARN: Initial Training
All Workforce Academy members qualify for subsidised training and qualification before they begin their role. This makes sure you feel safe and confident to practise before you begin and sets clear expectations for how we'll support you during your time in our Workforce Academy.
What you must do:
- Complete all fully subsidised and mandatory training required for your role. This may include DBS, First Aid, Safeguarding, and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion training
- Sign required documents (code of conduct, risk assessment, placement agreement) via DocuSign
- Complete Blue Arrow registration (paid roles only)
What you get:
- Northumbria Sport kit
- A named mentor or supervisor who supports and oversees you throughout your role
- A structured induction at the start of your role
- An official letter confirming your hours on request, suitable if you wish your hours to count for your mandatory academic placement
- A safe, inclusive and supportive working environment, with reasonable adjustments where required
- Free or discounted tickets to fixtures such as Newcastle Red Bulls, or Newcastle Eagles
GROW: — CPD and employability
Free access to accredited training that builds knowledge, with funding available towards further development. The aim is to turn the experience gained through your role into evidenced, employer-ready skills, so you leave with something concrete for your CV or LinkedIn profile.
What you can access:
- A suite of fully subsidised CPD (a total value of £300)
- Employability training, including a reflective skills task
- Mock job interview
- CV/Cover letter support
CPD course options:
- Coaching — How to Plan, Coach, and Reflect; Introduction to Cerebral Palsy in Sport; Coaching Blind and Partially Sighted People; Creating a Successful Coaching Environment
- Inclusive Sport — Breaking Down Barriers: Tackling Racism in Sport
- Health and Wellbeing in Sport — Sudden Cardiac Arrest; Concussion Awareness; Duty to Care Badge (covering diversity, inclusion, mental health and wellbeing, physical wellbeing, safeguarding and safe practice); Developing Physical Wellbeing within your Practice; Mental Health Awareness in Sport; Safeguarding and Protecting Children; Safeguarding Adults workshops
ACHIEVE — Networking and Progression
This is about connecting you with the wider sporting industry — building your network, learning directly from experienced practitioners, and creating space to reflect on your progress alongside your peers.
What's on offer:
- Focus Sport Coach Sessions — monthly masterclasses, each spotlighting a different sport and led by an experienced coach or practitioner from that discipline
- Guest CPD Masterclasses — sessions delivered by industry experts
- Access to Northumbria Sport events, such as Varsity, with the opportunity to attend Conference Cup Finals, BUCS Nationals and BUCS Big Wednesday
- More opportunities are being added throughout the year, so keep an eye on this page for upcoming dates
