Somerset ASA CDP
In 2023, Swim England (SE) changed the age group for the County Development Pathway (CDP) from swimmers aged 11 at 31/12/23 to those aged 12. As Somerset had delivered the SE CDP model to this group of swimmers in 2022/23, we saw this change as an opportunity to innovate by piloting a new approach to county-wide development.
Instead of the two 1-day camps modelled by SE, swimmers in Somerset were to be offered 10 sessions throughout the year. It was argued that, through the provision of multiple opportunities to train, Somerset CDP would better align with theories of learning, as providing regular opportunities that focus on key skills is proven to enable greater skill retention and improve ingrained technique. Click here to read the Evaluation of the 2023/24 programme.
“Our aim is to sow the seeds of a future Somerset where swimmers, coaches and clubs are empowered to enjoy our sport in a supportive and friendly environment whilst producing more swimmers able to reach their full potential… If the pilot proves successful there is potential for this model to be extended to different age groups and to be developed to encompass opportunities for Coach CPD (Continuous Professional Development).” July 2023
Following an Interim Evaluation completed in April 2024, Somerset ASA agreed to fund an expansion to the programme for 2024/25 to offer places to 12/13 and 13/14 age group swimmers and to pilot an extensive package of support for coach development including 8 new roles within CDP, coach mentoring and outreach. With this in place it was hoped that we could raise standards across the county and establish a vehicle to support accredited Coach CPD (once Swim England’s Coach licensing comes into place) whilst enabling our swimmers to enjoy their journey within aquatics. Click here to read the Evaluation of the 2024/25 programme.
Following the success of that second season, SASA once again took the brave decision to continue the expansion of the model in 2025/26 by doubling the number of swim places including a squad for 15/16 year olds, recruiting swimmers through an Expression of Interest method (rather than invites based on speed) and also piloting a new and accredited Level 1 Assistant Coach course for young volunteers. Click here to read the Evaluation of the 2025/26 programme.
The 2026/27 season builds on the work of the past 3 years using feedback from all participants in the hope that we can continue to stay relevant and responsive to the county’s needs.
“This is a great development opportunity for coaches and young volunteers. Rachel and Pat work with the coaches throughout the session providing feedback and support…The programme is very well thought out and provides added value for a variety of swimmers and coaches in Somerset. Well done to the team.” Jo John, Coach Development Manager, Swim England
- CDP Programme Outline – click here to learn more about our programme
- CDP Delivery Team – click here to meet our delivery team
- CDP Evaluation – click here to read our Evaluations
- CDP News – click here for the latest News from the CDP team
- CDP Resources – click here to find useful resources about nutrition, Raceday strategies along with quizzes and recipes