TRAINING NEWS

Assessment Update

Members will recall that at this year’s AGM, a pilot scheme for assessments received the backing of the members present.

The scheme has now been running for most of the outdoor season in Oxfordshire, the South West area and Bournemouth & District. Special thanks at this early stage to Dave Fowler, John Davies and John Williams for their enthusiasm and commitment to the process.

Different methodology was trialled in all areas with varying degrees of success. In early August a meeting was held where we looked at best practice across the pilot process and drew up a generic format which was used in a widespread way at the National Championships at Worthing.

Here we saw over 30 assessments carried out – both Umpiring and Marking. In general this was very well received by all participants and evidenced that this is what the members want.

There were objections to the process and this is to be welcomed as both “sides of the fence” have to be considered at all times. The significant factor of the objections would appear to be the benchmark against what the assessment is being made. This is simple – it is the standard of umpire / marker expected and produced following attendance at the training / development courses held throughout the country.

Our intentions are to carry on the pilot scheme during the indoor season in the three areas indicated above. The results at the end of the full year will be reported back to the members at next years AGM, where recommendations for the future will be made.

Should you require any further information in respect of Assessments then please do not hesitate to contact either your Area Tutor or the National Training Officer

National Training Officer