This update shares the Executive Board’s latest progress, key priorities and important dates, so that members can stay informed about what is happening across EBCS.

Website Modernisation

Target launch: 1 October 2026

• A completely new website and member system is being developed.
• Members will be able to update their own details online.
• Membership payments will be handled online.
• The new system is designed to reduce the administrative burden significantly.

Membership Records

• The current database is no longer reliable.
• A new email-based contact list will be created when the website goes live in October 2026.
• You will be able to add and update your personal details, qualifications, DBS status and safeguarding information.
• Details will be protected and compliant with all relevant legislation.

New Coaching Manuals

All EBCS manuals are being rewritten to support a more consistent, up-to-date approach to coaching across the organisation. This includes the Level 1 and Level 2 coaching manuals, the Level 1 and Level 2 Trainers’ and Assessors’ manuals, Level 1 and Level 2 CPD materials, the club coaches’ and new bowlers’ manuals, and the new constitution.

Ongoing Coach Training

Any coach currently completing training under the existing system must finish by 1 July 2026. After that date, no new registrations will be accepted under the old training structure. The Board recognises that this is a significant step, but believes that continuing outdated training would cause further damage to the image of EBCS.

Training Pathway & CPD

A clearer national approach has now been agreed to support coaches progressing to the next level:

• Experience Route — a minimum of two years’ active coaching at your current level.
• Fast Track — recommended by an assessor and authorised by the Director of Coaching.
• CPD Programme — completion of a structured CPD programme.

More detail will follow once the CPD package is finalised.

Communication

The Board is committed to improving how EBCS communicates with members. From October, when the new website launches, members will be contacted using the email address listed in their personal details, so it is important to make sure those details are up to date and able to receive messages.

At present, bulk emails cannot be sent reliably using the existing contact information because many email addresses are outdated, incorrect or blocked. In the meantime, general updates will now be posted on the EBCS website, and members are encouraged to help share these updates with other coaches.

New Uniform

A more modern, unisex uniform is being developed and will launch in October alongside membership renewals.

• Subsidised price — the first 500 EBCS coaches will be able to purchase one top each at below cost price, plus postage, when registration opens in October.
• Old stock — current badges and remaining stock have been written off as part of the refreshed uniform project and are no longer available.

Read the full uniform announcement →

Finance & Administration

Treasurer’s Review

• A clearer breakdown of course income and expenses.
• Improved banking processes.
• An updated expenses policy.
• Options for a business email system.

Investing in Development

The Board has approved a one-year professional Copilot licence to support ongoing development and modernisation.

Constitution Review

The EBCS Constitution is currently under review to make sure it remains fit for purpose and supports the organisation’s long-term development. The Board is actively working through the process, and a full update will be shared with all members once the review is complete.

How Can You Help?

We urgently need people for the following positions:

Director of Communication

This Board role will oversee administration of the new website, overall email communications, and the development of additional communication channels. It would suit someone with previous communications experience and does not need to be filled by a coach.

Assessors and Trainers

Needed to deliver and assess trainees on EBCS courses. Open to Level 2 and Level 3 coaches.

County Coaching Leads

These roles support the Board with communication and event organisation across each county. We are looking for someone with strong organisational skills who is willing to liaise with the Board and help coordinate coaching activity locally. This would suit a Level 3 coach or an experienced Level 2 coach. If you are already carrying out this role, please let us know.

Area Meeting Organisers

Volunteers are needed to arrange and promote local general meetings, so the Board can meet with as many coaches as possible and discuss plans for EBCS. Each meeting would last around three hours and would require one rink for a short demonstration.