Updated 9 November 2026 · Written for grassroots coaches by Gafferbook
To become a grassroots football coach, contact a local club (most are crying out for volunteers), complete the background check your country requires (such as a PVG in Scotland or a DBS check in England), do the safeguarding and entry-level courses, then start helping at sessions before leading your own team.
Step 1: find a club
Ask at your child's club, search your county or regional FA's club finder, or look at our youth leagues to see who plays near you. Most clubs need helpers and will be glad to hear from you.
Step 2: checks and safeguarding
Anyone coaching children needs the right background check: a PVG check through the club in Scotland, or a DBS check in England. Your club will arrange it. You'll also need a safeguarding course, and a first aid course is often required too.
Step 3: your first course
In England, start with the free EE Playmaker course, then Introduction to Coaching Football. In Scotland, the Scottish FA has its own coach education pathway. See our coaching badges guide, Playmaker guide and Introduction to Coaching Football guide.
Step 4: start coaching
Help an experienced coach for a few weeks, then take a group or a team. Keep sessions simple and fun. Our first-time coach guide, training hub and free assistant coach will help you plan sessions, pick fair teams and manage match days.
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