Symposium 6: Learning About Our Coaches: Lessons from Gaelic Games Challenges and Opportunities: The Role of External Coaches in Irish Primary Schools

Generalist teachers are responsible for teaching physical education in primary schools on the Island of Ireland, but the involvement of external coaches delivering sport-specific content is also widespread (Mangione et al., 2020). It is estimated that coaches representing the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) provide coaching input in over 90% of schools. This research sought to provide a deeper understanding of the role teachers and coaches play in the delivery of (i) curricular PE, and (ii) extracurricular school sport, leading to the provision of guidance for policymakers on the development of effective practices in primary schools. The research team used two data sources: quantitative data collected through a national GAA coaching survey, and qualitative semi-structured focus groups. Interviews were conducted with teachers (n=14), volunteer coaches (n=8) and full-time GAA coaches (n=10) who had responded to the original survey. The qualitative data was analysed using a six-step process to establish key themes (Braun & Clarke, 2021). Our preliminary findings highlight how external coaches contribute to both curricular and extracurricular activity within the school environment via the development of movement skills and the creation of school-community links. Teachers also played a pivotal role in the promotion of Gaelic games within schools. We also identified clear inconsistencies in practice across the country, whereby the interpretation of national education and sport policies vary widely. These findings have implications for sports’ governing bodies, and can have a significant influence in informing the development of government policy for the organisation of PE and school sport