Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 2 to increaseto the number people of all of ages and fitness health, for in participating abilities and fun supportto and more develop sustainable stronger, clubs that will provide increased and quality levels all at participate people to opportunities for ensuring enhanceto high the aquatic pathway, performance results through effective athlete quality coaching and development Strategic Objectives: • • • Context As part the of Corporate Plan process, review a Scottish Swimming the of evaluation comprehensive Performance was undertaken Plan 2006—2014 an by with process consultation a including group, independent swimmers, coaches, involving contributors of range wide a partners National (eg and Swimming) , British committees. The was review completed against a backdrop of international success at sustained and systematic improving, European) Commonwealth, World, (Olympic, Paralympic, level throughout the duration the of plan, together with significant progress in developing depth and competition across the .

in morein people taking part and reaching Everyone Can Swim” inspire our members and partnersTo in the development of aquatics, providing leadership and expert support, resulting their potential” full “ “ Introduction

Scottish new Corporate Swimming’s is Plan complete and outlines the Scottish Swimming vision, mission and strategic objectives for the next 6 years. Vision: Mission:

Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 3 Strategic Objectives & Associated KPIs Philosophy and Approach Taking account the of PerformanceTaking and Review in the context Scottish of Corporate new Swimming’s Plan, the swimming para swimming, on focuses Plan Performance and , as disciplines in a position deliver to against the strategic objectives and outlines our approach in the areas: following 1 2 3 Focus 4 Priorities The Performance Plan is a core Scottish Swimming document and must continue impact to positively and consistently on the progression the of sport in general, linking closely with all areas Scottish of Swimming. Running six for years, it is anticipated that the plan will be reviewed on bi-annual a basis, taking account into changing circumstances and thus evolving time. over

include diving within the Performance Plan, Plan, Performance the within diving include the achievement improved of performances across the swimmer pathway. central Quality remains coaching coaching – ensure the developmentto process athletes of Emphasis on female development – develop a targeted programme aimed improving at female swimmers across the pathway – Diving and environments training daily developing on focussing Consistency of approach – continue identify to based development systematic, a in swimmers at making decision based evidence with manner its core. Sharper focus on “elite” performance – set challenging standards the at highest towards level providing outcomes, Plan Performance the meeting and swimmers support to world-class, bespoke coaches. their Improved technical focus – develop and target technicalimprovement in key areas supporting towards athlete/coach development athlete/coach • • • The main recommendationsThe main of the Review Group regardin to the Scottish Swimming Performance 2015–2021Plan were: • • •

Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 5

6–8 swimmers attaining the in world top 16 ranking (2 per nation focus 2016/2020) 5 para-swimmers attaining top the 8 in world ranking (absolute and IPC Championship Events 2016/2020) focus Scottish the in divers ranking the world in top 18 measured by achieving the degree average of difficulty1m/3m/10m (individual diveson foror synchro) derived from the Olympic Games and ChampionshipsWorld 2004–2012 (focus In order to ensure that Scottish Swimming is on track thisto objective, achieve three headline performance indicators been agreed; have • • • 2018/2020) supplement the a range above, To underpinning of KPIs aimed evaluating at progress in terms depth of and quality across the sport been have developed. These include analysis trend depth British representation, Class World across each (open event and age group) along with National Programme progression. s KPI Strategic Objective: Strategic Objectives & Associated Performance enhance the high ensuring aquatic pathway, “To performance results through effective athlete development and quality coaching” The Scottish Swimming Performance 2021 – Plan 2015 will build on the progress made through the previous Plan. Scottish Swimming will continue positively to influence the linking the development to swimmer the of sport pathway, and leading sustained to performances the at highest level. current status,From Scottish Swimming the make wants to most available of talent and increase to the depth this of talent. In terms measurable of results, Scottish Swimming punchwants to well above its weight relative both to per swimmers. registered of number and capita population Scottish Swimming is working positive towards outcomes across the next six year including cycle, medal winning (Olympic, stage international the on performances Paralympic, Commonwealth World, and European to contribution strong a making and Championships) British teams. 1 Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 6 continued integration para-swimmers of swimming into programmes where appropriate and working to with swimming clubs and coaches provide to inclusive daily are swimmers para that ensuring environments training supported through the future pathway. the Development to Linked Plan, Scottish Swimming continues emphasise to and believe in the wider impact and benefitsathletesof being involved and committingto Benefitsthe aquaticof involvement pathway. with sport beenhave extensively researched and outlined (specifically athletes as physical/psychological health) however, around progress exposure areas to along such as the pathway, commitment/dedication, discipline, organisation, lifestyle aspiration, mindset, dealing with success and failure the in important factors are building relationship and development young of men and women as people, as well as athletes. As such, Scottish Swimming will proactively encourage the promotion these of areas as part the of athlete development process and through the duration of our plan will explore research opportunities monitor to this effect. The approach will be underpinned effective by Philosophy & Approach Philosophy Scottish Swimming will continue follow a “coach to driven, athlete focussed” approach the delivery to the of standards appropriate establishing Plan, Performance and levels expectation of each at stage the of pathway. The approach will be inclusive and collective, process based and innovative, with the development coaches, of athletes and performance staff at the heart what of we do. between and amongst communication consistent and learning partners, taking and coaches staff, Performance from across the sport contribute to success. towards Scottish focus developis to Swimming’s that a system our athletes and coaches believe gives them an edge over elseanyone in the world in terms its of ability inspire, to Furthermore, support improvement. and challenge their Scottish Swimming will continue the strive make to to sustainablesystem and not dependent one on any club, programme, coach or athlete. In doing Scottish so, Swimming recognises that the success the of sport in Scotland is based largely on the support the for daily training environment (clubs, programmes, centres). More specifically, Scottish Swimming continuesto believe development and quality coaching providing clubs that are critical the sustained to success aquatic of sport in Scotland. In acknowledging that the development of athletes is non-linear and takes time, Scottish Swimming will continue positively work to with clubs (swimming and diving) through both the coach and athletedevelopment process, and in doing so maximise potential within the sport. Scottish Moreover, Swimming is committed the to 2

Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 7 Expert Support & Innovation & Support Expert Learning & Adaptation MASTERY COMMITMENT COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE relationship between the development of swimmers swimmers of development the between relationship through the daily training environment and applied support through partners. The diagram is linear in nature in realityhowever most athlete development does not follow this flow. EMERGING COMMITMENT Progress to Podium to Progress

FOUNDATIONS

PERFORMANCE DAILY TRAINING ENVIRONMENT TRAINING DAILY

World ClassWorld Podium Class Podium PotentialWorld

WC Programmes WC Home Nation Programme Nation Home The delivery the of Plan requires effective collaboration partners,including; diving and swimming performance with the sportscotland institute sport,of , Authorities Colleges, Local and Universities Clubs, Theand diagram Leisure Trusts. below illustrates the Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 8 Evaluation & Monitoring & Evaluation Scottish the from on-going the monitoring to addition In Swimming Board, specifics within thePerformance Plan will be evaluated and monitored the Swimming by High Performance Group (SHPG). The group consists of staff (including Team Performance Scottish Swimming a representative from diving), two sportscotland staff Swimming, British member. independent one and members Swimming/DivingNational Scottish the Committees and Swimming Coaches Panel Technical will continue be to an integral part the of consultation/feedback process. Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 9 → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → → TechnicalExcellence Effective Athlete Development Athlete Effective Quality Coaching Environments Development & Performance Performance → → → → → → → → Focus & Approach Focus The overall recommendations the of performance group review have criticalbeen Centre distilled Lanes”, on-going to “4 to development and success. term longer sustained Each each “Centre “Centre Lane” is distinctive Lane” however, influences interacting continually theother, through the performance process. development 3

Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 11 Deliver the defined coaching withpathway clear expectations a) Scottish Swimming needs a network world of class coaches every at stage the of (swimming/ aquaticpathway class athletes para-swimming/diving) world produce to Scottishin a systematic way. Swimming recognises the contribution coaches of every at more level, specifically, a based coaching, of level every at excellence to commitment around what athletes need each at stage development of between differences the of awareness specificwith delivery successful the to Essential application. in genders theof coaching is a collaborative pathway culture of learning and good practice in the coaching community in Scotland. Integral this to shared approach is an ethos of challenging coaches become to exceptional, the best in the world, and supporting them in this journey. Coaching Pathway The National Coach will with work high performing partners (sportscotland, external and British coaches Swimming, UK Sport, other sports) identifyto specifically what is required each at stage coach of development. four stages will – The have pathway the pathway to linked developing athletes from young age-groupers through to athletes. Podium senior

Deliver the defined coaching withpathway clear expectations Provide support relevant stage each at of the coaching pathway Strategic Objective: Strategic “Scottish aquatics performance programmes are populated with effective and knowledgeable decision-makers, who enable athletes to develop technical excellence, thus impacting significantly on their performance and development” Raising ambitions and confidence in both our coaches and athletes believe can – to we compete with the best athletes in the world a positive and have impact on aquatic sport in general is a core Furthermore, feature the of strategy. learn and understand further to seeks Scottish Swimming from coaching excellence across the world in order to challenge coaches aspire to The be to “World Class”. approach is inclusive the of current set coaches of are we working with and a wider group coaches of who be to want a part this of vision. Scottish Swimming will: a) b) Quality Coaching 3.1 Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 12 Personal Coach Development As coachesprogress an individual along the pathway, coach development approach will be This taken. will include a meaningful and review appraisal process aimed enhancingat both coaching attributes and technical The application. effective with conjunction in knowledge clear intention this of increase is to the self-reflective capacity our of coaches extend to and develop their expertise. diving, For this will include exposure the best to practice in GB Diving,Gymnastics, competition and the soft skills associated with the sport. In both instances, where closely work to intention Scottish is Swimming’s it possible, with British Swimming implement to specific projects and more specifically encourage clubs/programmesto embed the appraisal process within the culture their of organisations. Central the overall to initiative coaches, for will be the encouragement a growth of mindset aimed at learning, and challenge to response positive promoting and responsibility for need the of recognition the with along performance. for accountability Development v Reward A feature the of coaching will be ensuring pathway a opportunities, on based providing to approach balanced coach Accordingly, results. athlete and need individual initiatives and appointments will be driventhe learning by needs coaches of areas (linked the coach of key to of recognition plan), the identifiedwithin development athlete achievements and the specific needsof theathletes. A process-based approach coaching to will continue be to promoted evaluation to linked agreed of outcomes.

squad activity High Performance Coach (16+) – working with level elite the at competing swimmers Children’s Coach (8–12Children’s years) – working with children participating in early age group swimming clubsin years) Age Group Coach (12–18 – working with young swimmers in involved age level National and District at competition group Performance Development Coach (12+) National in participating swimmers with working – • Each stage the of coaching will provide pathway a structured, purposeful development process coaches for through aspectswhich the key excellent of coaching practice will be identified and addressed. In doing it so, will be critical closely work to with especially the Development Team, (RSDM) Manager Development Swimming Regional the ensure to colleagues (operational) Education and network that the formal coachingqualification and training process is enhanced and improved. Coach Mapping coaching the of weaknesses and strengths identify where To are,system a coach mapping exercise will be undertaken. This process will benchmark eachthe of four stages against the requirements coaching of practice. Furthermore, this will provide the opportunity assess to individual coaching needs and development priorities. the process Likewise, will provide the opportunity coaches for (paid or unpaid) who wish be to ininvolved developing themselves, be to identified. The four stages are: • • • Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 13 pathway. Furthermore, mentoring a targeted process 1:1 pathway. will the National involve Coach and specialist practitioners ensureto that all aspects developing of coaching expertise are being addressed. these to Linked opportunities will be the creation a of in identified coaches placing events learning of series (for overseas and home at both environments challenging GB spending Stroke/Relay a or Camp attending example, time with a world leading coach in their programme). own These coaches will then present an at agreed coaching of benefit the for learning their disseminating seminar, others in the pathway. Central the successful to delivery this of programme will be a detailed training needs analysis process undertaken a personalised in resulting and identified coaches by development plan each for coach. Coach Education and Learning Coaches will be encouraged engage to with the formal In swimming. of outside and inside system education order do to this, it is essential that this is system relevant and authentic, taking account into the latest research and development in the world swimming of and the broader sphere coach of education. The National Coach will work to coaches and colleagues development with closely enhance the current coach education This system. includes areas such Coach as and UKCC, qualifications CPD’s in Scottish diving, in Likewise tertiary sector. the education Swimming will continue and review to progress the current 1 andlevel 2 diving qualifications, and introduce an annual calendar CPD of workshops run alongside to the Diving National Programme. Provide support relevant stage each at of the coaching pathway b) A fully functioning and effective coaching requires pathway significantof support,level rangingformalfrom training and and contact deck on direct learning, experiential education, personal deliver this development. type To support, of key areas implementation of are set out below and will be led by the National Coach. Programme visits National Coach – programme visits will be definedathleteby andlevel coach needs. The visits will be both challenging and supportive (for coach and swimmer) and, if necessary, for plans of implementation the on Focused interventionist. identifiedathletes, the visits will be conducted regularly and reflective more and sessions practical of observation on based meetings discuss to progress on previously agreed actions. the programme to Linked visits, the formal institute athlete processreview will add an evidence-based to framework to athletes. and coaches for identify objectives Programme of Coach Development Opportunities Associated with the four stages a the of coaching pathway, progressive and systematic programme coach of development British with partnership in delivered be opportunities will Swimming and the Scottish Swimming Development Core elementsTeam. will include workshops National at which to addition in gatherings, Squad and Championships there will be bespoke learning and events seminars (both Building identified coaches. for local) and required as national on the existing Coaching Matters programme, a further series technicalof and generic workshops will be delivered on an annual basis, accessed a range by coaches of across the

Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 15 Create environment an supporting the understanding of technical excellence a) support theTo right environment, set to expectations want we whereby technical excellence is recognised as one the of key objectives be to met in achieving optimal performance and which can significant a have detrimental impact on performance when not addressed. excellence Technical is fundamental within the swimmer development process and must be the priority all at stages including Learn Swim to (LTS), where fundamentalsare taught through high to performancein the right way, where a specific focus on detail is required. Scottish Swimming is committed to influencing the coach and swimmerin this regard, pathway including and ambition with swimmers those to approach forensic a taking capability succeed to on the international stage. In essence, will we recalibrate the technical agenda and refocus our attention skilful to as well as fast swimming. fundamentally We believe that the former leads the latter to and develops robust, sustainable foundations for performance. successful The National Coach a technical will have focus with coaches and athletes through a process based approach, examining technical and fundamentals embedding swimming, world across trends standards. and central themes A innovations, new incorporating feature with work of coaches will be asking questions and looking deep,for technical knowledge and effective application this of swimmers performance of coaches understanding; the challenging and demanding coaches of developing of swimmers focus not to challenging Although technique. of expense the at training on solely progress,to this philosophy will be addressed through the “Quality v in-particular development and the above section Coaching” approach.reward

Create environment an supporting the understanding of technical excellence Drive the application of technical excellence throughout the coach and athlete pathways Technical Excellence Strategic Objective Strategic “Scottish athletes can apply effectively skills speed,at under fatigue and under pressure, competitionconsistently in conditions” In swimming, races are or won lost millimeters by or hundredths seconds. of Swimmers who win are those who preparedhave do to the little things well under pressure practicingby and refining in training. It is accepted and understood in sport that athletes fall backupon their training “habits” when under pressure in the competitive arena, thus ifswimmers been have allowed complete to in detail to attention uncompromising an without sessions their technique and skills, these bad “habits” will fail them are Scottish If swimmers pressures. competition under beto successful the at highest levels, it is essential that their learned training “habits” are technically outstanding in order that when the pressure and pain racing of hits them, their “good habits” help achieve an outstanding to result. Scottish Swimming will: a) b) 3.2 Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 16 Drive application of technical excellence Coaching Practice and change – evaluation Our requires system that coaches effect to know how change on athletes, particularly technical changes, improve stroke to outcomes modelling technical the Using efficiencyspeed. and as a starting point, will we implement a series technical of encouragingthemes across coaches the pathway, all at levels technical useto key markers as a means improve swimming to in a progressive Scottish to Linked manner. Swimming’s the technical Framework, themes in performance LTS new swimming will build on thefoundation skills learned in teaching programmes. Developing technical excellence should be a componentkey all of programmes and Scottish Swimming will support coaches and swimmers achieve this. to b) National technical themes will be established in conjunction with British Swimming and delivered as core elements the of technicaldrive towards excellence. It would be impossible to deliver all these of once, at so priorities will be set and a rolling programme technical of developments mapped out. One of elementsthe key this of programme will be an emphasis on racing skills in addition technique. stroke to A benchmarking exercise (looking start at and turns) was piloted several years ago and this will be updated and established as a set of standards be to achieved. Under the leadership the of National Coach, technical each for ‘champions’ the of competitive strokes and racing skills will be given responsibility develop to performance standards. benchmark against improve and These will consist a gender-specific of athlete and coach unit, extending the principle in use our at National Camps. Stroke within re-emphasising excellence diving, technical in Likewise competition a end this to and paramount is competition diving resource suggesting dive list progression, creation, order, group coverage and tariffwill be developed. Technical ModellingTechnical will establishWe technical models strokes of and events sport the and in trends performance using gender, by world- of performances and techniques the analysing against swimmers our Benchmarking swimmers. leading and significantmonitoring requires standards these collaboratively working end, this To capacity. evaluation Aberdeen partners (sportscotland,with Swimming British Sports Village (ASV) will we develop an ASV into development. technical for centre recognised internationally Auditing Scottish swimmers across the pathway against established criteria will an form integral part of our technical excellence objective, coupling swimmer improvement with coach learningand will also provide the within mechanics stroke in opportunity identify trends to Para-Swimming. In diving, the creation a diving of skills matrix that suggests dive development order and progression will be formulated diving-specific with along dryland coach implemented and resources covering a range areas of including gymnastics, dry and board trampoline specificdiving conditioning, skills. The matrix will be with linked British Swimming initiatives and approach, allowing flexibility and roomfor innovation in each these of areas. Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 17 Competition The ultimate measure technical of development is when conditions, competition under performance swimmers are pressured (physically andmentally) and challenged repeat to consistently (heats, finals, over consistently techniques apply to able Being days). several drills and skills than more requires conditions these under in practice sessions. will encourage We and support the technique-based of implementation and development meets at awards where skill and tactics are rewarded competitive effective Linking times. race alongside more much is improvements technical to performance significant in the developmentswimmersof than chasing times through an adult based physiological training model. swimmers allow will conditions competition innovative Such and coaches develop to race models and experiment environments. supportive non-threatening, in them with This innovation will be included as part the of competition process.review “Quality to Linked buy in from Coaching”, coaches the process to technique of development is critical overallfor improvement in this area occur. to Monitoring & Evaluation Monitoring & Essential the success to this of technical excellence objective will be high quality monitoringand evaluation. An effective race analysis resource is already in place, must we strive continually to improve this be to however, Aberdeen at developments facility new The leading. world Sports Village, in conjunction with provision camera of and analysis equipment, will deliver on the objective evaluation. and monitoring of components measurement In addition this, to will we establish a national programme auditingof our swimmers against technical standards with regular progress measures taking place with agreed swimmers. and coaches for outcomes performance extend the existingTo provision, plan we provide to race for Events identified National at evaluation and footage and technology camera new incorporating swimmers, all direct coach/swimmer feedback. Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 18 – relationship/integration with the local the with relationship/integration – Establish four effective swimming Centres/Hubs delivering stronglyto Scottish Swimming performance outcomes Quality Coaching – full time, performance focussed, varied approaches Performance focus performance/coach – led, athlete centred, strong and embedded culture of expectations and standards shared Appropriate facilities and access (appropriate pool – (pool, short balance), and course time course long boards, land), space, equipment Service conditioning, and provision strength – science performance medical, physiotherapy, University/College relationships – academic flexibility, personal supportscholarships, service provision, care pastoral development, Sustainability pathway; financially stable financially pathway; a) Scottish Swimming has identified the needfourfor sustainable centres/ hubs across Scotland – in Stirling, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Glasgow. In addition, Edinburgh will be established as a centre diving for in Scotland and Britain. Currently each centre/hub has a different model delivery of and all are different at stages development. of The main objective for Scottish Swimming will continue be to the delivery an of enhanced, elements all whereby environment, training daily driven performance required successful for athlete performance and development are in place. These include; • • • • • • Ensuring that the above are in place each for centre, providing appropriate coaching choice with differing approaches, will help support to the swimming. senior to swimmers youth and age of transition

Establish four effective swimming Centres/Hubs delivering strongly to Scottish Swimming performance outcomes Support andenhance performance development environments across Scotland, contributing towards underpinning measures and performance outcomes Performance & Performance Development Environments Development & Performance Performance Strategic Objective: Strategic “Centres/hubs, programmes and clubs where people, facilities and conditions exist to enable planned, sustained success and achievement” implementation the on lead to continues Scottish Swimming a structureof that enhances the dailytraining environments for athlete the linking athletes, performance and developing our from learningpathway swim/dive, to club to swimming/diving opportunities Providing performance. high to through and and options athletes for train to in focussed, coach led and supported environments is critical, as is ensuring that there is enough capacity and quality within the Coaching system. continues be to a central feature the of Performance Plan, and as such Scottish Swimming will implement a strategy of maintaining or increasing (if required) the number full-time of coaches in Scotland, along with improving the quality the of environments delivered through this strategy. Scottish Swimming will: a) b)

3.3 Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 19 Managed to Centres/Hubs and Pathway Link Ensuring that swimmers, parents and coaches areclear swimmers as how to can access/move centres, to a transparent process allowing informed athletes make to decisions, will in a timely be developed manner, and implemented. The development this of process will involve coaches, including groups various with consultation parents, experts and lifestyle performance swimmers, coaching; academics;as specificsuch areas considering The timescales. lifestyle; and staff performance guidance in engage will Coach National and Director Performance an that ensure parties all to with discussions transparent effective process is put in place and implemented. Development of Edinburgh a Performance as Centre for Diving Edinburgh will be developed as a Performance Centre expectations and approach the incorporating diving for swimmingof described The above. aim create is to a structure in Scotland where appropriate coaching and training junior up to elite is level accessible in all diving clubs. During this phase a once-a-week training slot will be made available in Edinburgh offer to access better to facilities and higher levels coaching of expertise. Once divers shown themselves have as established junior elite divers, willlinks be made encourage to full time training in Edinburgh promote to further development as a senior athlete. Effective PerformanceManagement and implementation the in lead will Scottish Swimming alignment the of evaluation process across each the of centres/hubs, the partnership to linked agreements in place each.at Working with partners, part this of process will be an audit against factors identified the key takingabove, into account the different stages current of centre development, and then an action plan each for centre will be produced. In doing this, ScottishSwimming will ensure a greater level consistencyof in benchmarking show progress to and the for expectations clear establishing with along trends, centre. each of development/management Establish centres/hubs Centres as of Learning Each centre/hub will be developed incorporate to ongoing swimmer and coach development and linking in with the on-going coach education process. Scottish Swimming will lead a process where formal and informal learning opportunities will be provided as part the of strategy and will be the Scottish to linked Swimming National Programme. An example this of will be Camps Stroke held each at the of centres/hubs on an annualbasis and ‘champions’. technical by delivered

Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 21 Performance Development Review Scottish Swimming will undertakean evaluation of current investments in full-time coaching, alongside the effectiveness performance of development programmes across the country. The outcome this of will guide Scottish weaknesses and ascertain strengths to where Swimming support further and identify where and apparent are development is required. Monitoring and Evaluation A consistent approach on-going to evaluation of established be will environments development performance partners.This and programmes clubs, with conjunction in plans development swimming established alongside sit will and refer specificallyto KPIs in areas such as coaching, access (space/time), results and trends, investment/ National with engagement conditioning, land sustainability, Programme, swimmer progression, and contribution the to system. development performance overall Combining the two areas identified willabove enable Scottish Swimming greater insight and clarity around making. decision investments

environments across Scotland, contributing towards underpinning measures and performance outcomes Clubs, Local Authorities and Scottish Swimming clubs Individual Universities Support and enhance performance development Quality coaching remains a central feature the of Performance Plan and Scottish Swimming continues to highlight full-time coaching as a priority within the sport. The number full-time of swimming coaches in Scotland now in 2006)stands 32 at (18 supported in a variety ways of by: in invested partnerships including • • • Scottish Swimming is committed maintaining to or enhancing the number full-time of swimming coaches, providing there is an identified need and a strong likelihood sustainability of the for long term. Investment in posts/programmes will be considered alongside other investments such as Direct Club Investment (DCI). Furthermore, where partnerships exist around full-time coaching posts, commitment the National to Framework longer a and/or agreements access events Swimming, for fundingterm “circle life” of investment an into overall considered. be may plan swimming b) Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 22 Likewise supportLikewise in establishing Dundee as a plausible be could diving Development Performance for location provided. Support and encouragement will also be offered of implementation the towards Ayr in Authorities Local to divinga new board project, allowing the for development of a springboard focus capable creating of talent an to elite level. be will facility diving a that ambition long-term a is There developed It is unlikely that Tollcross. this at happen until after the European Championships but as soon in 2018, as the projectTalent is confirmed Identification a programme will be established so that diving a new facility can be opening. on immediately populated Diving Performance Development – Aberdeen, Dundee, (and Ayr Glasgow) in Aberdeen facility first-class diving the of building The will enhance considerably the opportunity develop to diving the coming over years through a cohesive, collaborative and strategic approach across the country. Development Performance strong Setting a up programme in Aberdeen, led a full-time by coach is a high priority and Scottish Swimming will lead this process Aberdeen with engagement and partnership through Sports Village. and base lessons strong a of development Furthermore, IdentificationTalent programme, progressingto coaching and a squad structure able nurture to talent through programme, is essential the for long term.

Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 24 Deliver a National Programme supporting the process of athlete development and theEvolve competition structure supporting the needs of developing athletes Scottish Swimming will: a) self-determination b)

Effective Athlete Development Athlete Effective Strategic Objective Strategic “Deliver a sustainable based pathway on the progressive developmental needs of the athlete resulting technically in excellent, robust, self- sufficient,independent performers” Producing a critical mass athletes of in swimming, para swimming and diving the top end toward the of pathway, in the takes time. right the pathway Presently, way within swimming in Scotland is further strong however strengthening with along required quality is in improvement theof diving the and para Moreover, swimming pathways. process development of applied within each require may slightly different approaches due the needs to the of sport. in coming children that ensuring collectively However, clubs,to (primarily from Learn Swim, to Dive or through SDS Clubs) are exposed quality a to process athlete of development wherever that be may is essential. 3.4 Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 25 Deliver a National Programme supporting the process of athlete development and a) self-determination The Scottish Swimming National Programme will continue supportto the process athlete of development through the land and based water including environment training daily based development – delivered clubs by and programmes across the country. Spreading the net wide in the first an out setting and coaches with engaging instance, approach aimed challengingat athletes achieve progress to and individual success through their hard and work dedication will be a core feature. Furthermore, coaches will be encouraged develop to a philosophy holistic, of process based athlete development the needs to linked the of individual and appropriate age to and stage. In addition, will we continue cohesively work to with British Swimming further to develop and enhance the athlete that ensuring process, evaluation and monitoring tracking, athletes Podium/Podium Class World Potential identified appropriately. supported are Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 26 As per the National Squads Selection Policy the Scottish ProgrammeTalent will identify athletes with disability a for inclusion the into four National Squadprogrammes above. Allocation squads to will be based taking account into age; on place current classification; development; swimmer the swimmer and pathway; potential Class World make to Programmes or representative teams. the performance to Linked athletes, of the National Programme will focus on the coach/athlete unit on an importance coach the of emphasising basis, individual education and development each at stage the of coaching A range activities of pathway. will be delivered through the curriculum educational an including Programme National and by influenced experiential) and (both theoretical building the needs towards a performance of athlete. individual with along experiences competition and Training sportscotland institute the by primarily support delivered sportof components will be key the of programme. In all these of areas, a challenging approach, promoting high standards and expectations, will be adopted, linked fundamentally a robust to formal athlete process. review Senior (Gold/Silver/Bronze)Senior Gold Youth Development) Silver (Youth Youth District Regional Programme (Bronze) Athlete Identificationand Support Swimmers will be selected as per the process described within the National Squads Selection which is Policy, a clear description the of future direction. The Scottish Swimming standards promote a wider approach to potential with swimmers identifying selection, swimmer movement swimmer accepting time, of period longer a over to linking and developers late identifying system, the within development. athlete of principles sound The Scottish Swimming National Programme will consist of four squad programmes; • • • • Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 27 Service Provision Supporting Athlete Development Scottish Swimming continues engage to in a positive sport will of and sportscotland institute the with relationship continue develop to a service and evolve agreement level (SLA) deliver to support athletes andcoaches. In addition, an evaluation process identify to areas improvement for will be undertaken, inform and to improve current working para-swimmers Support and practices. diving services for selected within the Scottish National Programme will be incorporated within the Scottish Swimming SLA. Where possible, tertiary education establishments will be encouraged in work partnership to with Scottish Swimming and the sportscotland institute sport of deliver to agreed levels support of athletes to training within this framework. Scottish Senior Scottish Junior Scottish Talent Development of Diving National Programme Where the Scottish Swimming National Programme delivering/supporting is elements, non-technical more specifically around educational, TEAM or coach para- and divers opportunities,swimmers, development swimmers will be integrated. In diving, a fresh approach will be the development to taken and delivery divers to and coaches within the Scottish National Programme in the way; following Threegroups of divers will be identified: • • • Divers will be identified and selected through published criteria. The groups above will, where possible (specifically non-technical areas) be integrated within the National Programme. Divers will be developed and supported appropriately, based on identified needs, througha range Camps; development National coach including activities of seminars; coach/individual training support individual on opportunities. plans; competition and Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 28 – SDS Regional & National Championships National SDS & – Regional – the four following opportunities will be utilised to Swimming Talent IdentificationSwimming Talent Days National & Regional – DisabilityTalent SpecificIdentification Days – targeting impairment groups Visually e.g. Impaired Competition SDS Regional Development Managers – multi-sport Opportunities Transfer Talent and Scottish Swimming, utilising the athlete tracker database, will monitorthe development of athletesall to SDS linked regional and Scottish Swimming National Squad Programmes. Coach education will continue to be offered with a focus on hands-on experiential opportunities to develop coach understanding of eligible impairments and progression through the swimmer pathway. Strength and Depth Development Para-Swimming in is para-swimmers potential of classification and identification The further to key developing our strength and depth in the disability Swimming Para British with closely Working pathway. swimming and Scottish Disability Sport, Scottish Swimming will continue to identify athletes with a disability, signpost them appropriate into swimming opportunities and tracktheir progress as advance they through the swimmer pathway. Identification SDS. with working partnership through athletes identify potential • • • • Tracking • • Mindset Underpinning Swimmer Development Now an embedded part the of swimmer selection process, mindset assessment will play an increasing part in the element key A athletes. of process development and identification developmentof will be working with individual coaches to progress in this area, along with working with clubs and parents ensureto that positive reinforcement is in place. Strategy for the Enhancement of Female Performance Swimming The Performance Plan process review identified the need performance female improving for strategy a implement to swimming. Having identified thatworld-ranked there fewer are females than males (over several years) there is a clear need to focus on re-energising female swimming across the pathway, both encourage to and develop our girls and women remain to within the sport and achieve on to a more regular basis. In the first instance, Scottish Swimming willform a steering groupto with experts along external and athletes coaches, with engage researched evidence and strategies used other by sports. An initiative selecting an inclusive group focused for attention in training, lifestyle and motivation will be from 2015–2018 as Games Gold Coast Commonwealth with implemented, the first benchmark meetto measure evaluateand made. improvements Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 29 Our approachpara to swimmers will be offer to mixture a disability specificoffer and opportunitieswhich inclusive of structured and progressive learning experiences which will coaches. and swimmers challenge Scottish Swimming will also continue with work to Scottish international attract to Swimming British partners and Scotland to events which allow our athletes compete to in home soil, our volunteers and officialsto get in involved witness supporters to and clubs sport our and international the best athletes in the world competing in Scotland, all of which helps promote to the sport. The Scottish competitive diving programme also continues and develop. evolve to As progress is made across the centres will we add and develop these competition opportunities. Competition Process Review been has review competition Swimming’s British during implemented being are changes and completed Scottish / 2016. Swimming2015 will consider now the enhance opportunities to at look calendar and domestic what is currently offered. This will review account take of the greater drive towards technical skills, the importance a longof term approach and the opportunity use to the athletes of support education the to structure competition swimmers. and Competition structure supporting the needs of developing athletes Classification remainsfundamental to Paraswimming and as such Scottish Swimmingwill with work British Para Swimming, the sportscotland institute sport of disability-specificto other sportand organisations the in developments and changes the understand athletes, develop and educate to system; classification coaches and parents; and develop, as to classifiers, two physiotherapists, ideally the insitute, to linked and two coaches a minimum who 3. have level UKCC Gap AnalysisProject Within Para Swimming across the UK and indeed globally, events classification lower in emerging gaps clear are there (S1 – S5) and potentially in visually impaired classifications Scottish – S13). Swimming(S11 will consider initiatives and special projects advantage take to gaps. any of b) relevant offers pathway competition the that essential is It opportunities each for stage athlete of development including the retention people of in our sport and the development performance of a athletes. From that system competition a perspective Performance in coaches guiding in development technical emphasises is championships major for swimmers of preparation the required. Scottish Swimming must continue build to on its growing reputation delivering for high quality meets and through this will attract UK and international teams which events to will also contribute the raising towards of standards. Classification • Performance Plan 2015 – 2021 30 2020–21 2019–20 2019–20 2018–19 2018–19 2017–18 2017–18 The following diagram highlights approximate timeline of the within initiatives developed or new of implementation plan. These priorities and timelines will be evaluated on a bi-annual basis as described earlier in the plan. Monotoring & Evaluation & Monotoring Competition opportunities – domestic structure & internationa; experiences (swimming & diving) & (swimming experiences internationa; & structure domestic – opportunities Competition 2016–17 Coaching Practice – evaluation & change & evaluation – Practice Coaching Coach Education & Learning & Education Coach Personal Coach Development Coach Personal Effective Performance Management Performance Effective Managed Link & Pathway to Centres/Hubs Coaching Pathway 2015–16 2015–16 Competition & racing strategy racing & Competition Swimming – Performance Development Endorsements – scoping > assessment & evaluation > development & implementation & development > evaluation & assessment > scoping – Endorsements Development Performance – Swimming Development & introduction of technical models technical of introduction & Development Programme of Coach Development Opportunities Development Coach of Programme Driving partnership work towards improved (& local) opportunities for para-swimming classification para-swimming for local) opportunities (& improved towards work partnership Driving Installation of camera system in Aberdeen (2015). Roll-out of access system for Performance Programmes (2015–16) Programmes Performance for system access of Roll-out (2015). Aberdeen in system camera of Installation Strategy for enhancing female performance swimming – review post-CGs review – swimming performance female enhancing for Strategy Establish National Programme for Diving – strategy > facilities & staffing > implementation > staffing & facilities > strategy – Diving for Programme National Establish Diving – establish Edinburgh Performance Centre; Aberdeen Perf. Development Centre (2016); Dundee Perf. Development Centre (2016); Centre Development Perf. Dundee (2016); Centre Development Perf. Aberdeen Centre; Performance Edinburgh establish – Diving 2014–15 2014–15 Performance & Performance Development Environments Quality Coaching Technical Excellence Effective Effective Athlete Development 1 L L L L 3 2 E E E E 4 N N N N A A A A Moving forward, Scottish Swimming continues to Plan Performance current the of elements core deliver (e.g. National Programme activity, support services, calendar planning) already in place. Priorities 4