Coach Mentors

As a part of Table Tennis England’s Coach Development Framework, coach mentors are central to raising coaching standards, strengthening environments, and improving player experiences at every stage of the pathway. Through trusted relationships and place-based support, mentors help coaches turn learning into effective practice.  

What is a coach mentor? 

A coach mentor is an experienced coach who supports the development of other coaches through structured guidance, observation, feedback, professional discussions and reflection.  

Mentors operate within the Table Tennis England Coach Development Framework and are aligned to national coaching standards and the Player Development Framework. Mentors bridge the gap between theory and practice, helping coaches apply learning in real environments aligned to the Player Development Framework.  

Why mentoring matters to Table Tennis England  

Effective mentoring strengthens the whole coaching system across Table Tennis England. It ensures a connected, values-driven approach to coach development that supports both participation growth and performance ambitions.  

Effective mentoring: 

• Supports consistent, high-quality coaching practice 

• Reinforces player-centred, age and stage-appropriate development 

• Builds coach confidence, identity, and retention 

• Ensures coaches grow alongside the players they support 

• Embeds values, behaviours, and professional standards across environments 

What do coach mentors do? 

Mentoring is coach‑centred, contextual, and progressively adapting as a coach’s role, confidence, and environment evolve. 

Coach mentors: 

• Observe coaching practice and provide structured feedback 

• Support coaches to reflect, set goals, and develop confidence 

• Guide coaches through role progression and qualification requirements 

• Reinforce Table Tennis England values, behaviours, and standards 

• Will also support learning through CDP delivery  

Recruitment and quality assurance 

Coach mentoring roles within Table Tennis England are recruited through a formal selection process. This ensures mentors: 

• Demonstrate high standards of coaching practice and behaviour 

• Have the skills to support adult learning and development 

• Are aligned with Table Tennis England values, frameworks, and expectations 

All coach mentors will be supported through training, CPD, and ongoing review to maintain quality and consistency across the coaching system.  

Becoming a coach mentor is a progression opportunity for experienced coaches who want to support others and help shape the future of coaching in England. Mentors contribute to coach education, qualification delivery, and the long‑term development of the coaching workforce. 

Interested in becoming a coach mentor?

If you’re interested in becoming a coach mentor, please email [email protected] and one of the team will be in touch.