Snowsport England Confirms Return of ‘SheLeads’ Programme for 2026

by admin in RSS Social News. Posted June 1, 2026

Women have historically been underrepresented in snowsports coaching roles, limiting career opportunities and reducing the visibility of female role models within the sport.

Research conducted in partnership with Loughborough University highlighted key challenges faced by women in the industry.

These include limited access to mentoring opportunities and barriers to progressing through coaching qualifications.

SheLeads was created to address these issues directly by providing structured support, mentoring, and funded development pathways for women looking to enter or progress within coaching and instructing roles.

The first SheLeads cohort brought together 12 women aged between 16 and 55 from across the snowsports landscape.

Participants represented a diverse range of backgrounds, from grassroots snowsports enthusiasts to elite athletes, including Olympians.

Participants described the programme as transformational, both personally and professionally.

“My mentor has helped me to overcome my imposter syndrome. She builds confidence in my own skiing and is my biggest cheerleader. She’s more than a mentor – she’s become a friend.” – GA

“It’s great to be part of a big community which I never knew was there. I didn’t realise there are so many females with such diversity across the industry.” – CL

“It’s nice to hear that I am not the only one struggling in a male-dominated environment, especially at FIS level. Hearing that others have the same struggles normalises it, and I now have a safe space to chat.” – SM

Since joining the programme, participants have worked towards and achieved a variety of qualifications, ranging from Level 1 Instructor certifications through to Park & Pipe Level 2, roller ski instructor qualifications, and Level 3 alpine coaching awards.

The majority of the first cohort have already completed their qualifications, marking a significant step forward in increasing the number of qualified female coaches and instructors in England.

Snowsport England is now offering 10 places for the second SheLeads intake.

The programme will begin in October 2026 and run over an extended 24-month period, allowing participants greater opportunity for long-term development and support.

Image c/o Snowsport England.

Successful applicants will receive:

* A funded Snowsport England coaching or instructing qualification
* A dedicated female mentor
* Access to coaching development workshops
* Ongoing support and networking opportunities

The programme will officially launch with a special in-person event in October, bringing together the new intake alongside the first SheLeads cohort and mentors to celebrate achievements and welcome the next generation into the growing network.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

* Be female
* Be aged 16 or over
* Live in England
* Be a proficient skier or snowboarder

The programme is open to both individuals new to coaching and those looking to advance their existing qualifications.

Funding is available for a wide range of Snowsport England courses, subject to eligibility, with places awarded based on individual applications and development needs assessed by a selection panel.

For more information and application details, applicants are encouraged to read the application form below.

Any questions regarding the SheLeads programme can be directed to Gemma at: gemmaw@snowsportengland.org.uk

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