Somerset ASA Pilot 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 are offered 10 sessions throughout the year. Through the provision of multiple opportunities to train, Somerset CDP better aligns with theories of learning, as providing regular opportunities that focus on key skills is proven to enable greater skill retention and improve ingrained technique.
Following an Interim Evaluation completed in April 2024, Somerset ASA has agreed to fund an expansion to the programme for 2024/25. Our CDP programme offers places to 12/13 and 13/14 age group swimmers and is piloting an extensive package of support for coach development including 8 new roles within CDP, coach mentoring and outreach. With this in place we hope to raise standards across the county and establish a mechanism to support accredited Coach CPD once Swim England’s Coach licensing comes into place whilst enabling our swimmers to enjoy their journey within aquatics.
“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
- CDP News – click here for the latest News from the CDP team
- CDP Programme Outline – click here to learn more about our pilot programme
- CDP Delivery Team – click here to meet our delivery team
- CDP 2023/24 Evaluation – click here to learn more about the 2023/24 pilot programme
- CDP Resources – click here to find useful resources about nutrition, Raceday strategies along with quizzes and recipes