The impact of using a spectrum of pedagogical approaches on age grade rugby: the development of grass roots rugby union through the lens of coaches, players and parents

The principle research aim of Tim's PhD is to investigate the current landscape of coaching in age grade rugby, with the following objectives:

• Evaluate through empirical and theoretical information coaching in grass roots rugby union and age grade rugby;
• Observe and analyse coaches through a year-long longitudinal study to gain an insight into current coaching practices in age grade rugby, coaches' understanding of adaptive games/constraints-led approach and the theoretical application;
• Investigate how the RFU Coaching Award and Coaching Professional Development Courses impact on coaches' delivery and whether it changes or influences their pedagogical approach;
• Ascertain the thoughts and opinions of children on age grade rugby and coaching delivery to inform future coach education and sustain participation in the game of rugby union;
• Gain an understanding of parents' perceptions of coaching delivery and their thoughts on age grade rugby and the development of grass roots rugby union.

Outside of his PhD, Tim's employment includes: Senior Lecturer in Sport Coaching and PE at SHU, Secondary and Sixth Form College PE Teacher and RFU Coach Educator. He holds a PGCE in Physical Education, BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science, RFU Level 3 Coaching Award, and RFU Coach Educator Award.

In his spare time, he coaches a National League rugby union team (over 14 seasons), and is a triathlete and cyclist. 

He was responsible for a skills acquisition conference at New York Stadium, Rotherham.