Members’ FAQ — updated 14 September 2026
Welcome to the EBCS Members’ FAQ. It explains the changes being made to modernise EBCS, improve communication and systems, update coaching materials, and provide more effective support for members, coaches, trainers, assessors, and bowlers.
This document will be updated as new questions are received. If your question isn’t answered here, email [email protected].
The Society is being overseen by the Pro Tem Executive Committee:
This structure will remain in place while the modernisation work continues.
The target launch date is 1 October 2026.
The new website will include a redesigned member system, online membership registration and record updates, tailored access for trainers and assessors, online manuals, DBS and safeguarding information, uniform ordering, and automated renewal reminders.
Yes. Members will have secure access to coaching materials and their personal information, while members of the public will be able to view general information only.
The current email database is no longer reliable. A new email-based system will be created when the website goes live.
Before releasing the Level 1 and Level 2 manuals, EBCS needs to establish a sufficient pool of trainers and assessors who understand the new national programme. The Board has therefore decided to delay publication until enough suitably prepared trainers and assessors are available.
From 1 October 2026, interim coaching guides will be available to all coaches. Bowlers may also apply for training from that date, and EBCS will allocate a trainer as soon as one becomes available. This is intended as a short-term arrangement.
Level 1 qualifications remain unchanged; however, a national coaching method will be introduced. Level 2 qualifications will now include freezing the head and video analysis. Level 3 will become a more supervisory role, focusing on training, assessing, and mentoring.
EBCS is producing a set of Level 1 videos demonstrating delivery line and length. PowerPoint presentation materials are also being developed for all trainers.
Current Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications will not change.
Following the restructuring of the coaching framework, the other levels are no longer required and will be recorded as Level 3.
There are three routes:
On completion of the Level 1 CPD programme, coaches become eligible to attend a Level 2 course. On completion of the Level 2 CPD programme, coaches will be upgraded to Level 3.
EBCS is preparing a short manual containing the relevant information, which will be available to all current Level 2 coaches.
They apply online, pay the coaching fee, complete training with an allocated trainer, and are assessed once the trainer requests it. Successful candidates register on the website and payments to trainers and assessors are automated.
Yes. This aligns EBCS with Bowls England and EIBA requirements.
All coaches must complete Safeguarding Awareness training before January 2028. We will arrange course options.
As a national coaching society, EBCS must ensure that all coaches complete safeguarding awareness training that is relevant to bowls and coaching, rather than relying solely on a brief generic course. Once the new website is live, EBCS will publish details of at least two recommended courses, which coaches will be able to access from January 2027.
We recognise that a significant number of coaches may need to complete this training, so coaches will have until January 2028 to complete an approved course.
Updates will continue to be published on the existing website. EBCS has also held several meetings with county representatives.
Counties that would like EBCS to arrange a visit should contact us with details of a suitable venue.
Yes. A modernised uniform will be available to order from October.
The introductory price is £20, including postage, for the first 500 members, limited to one uniform per member. From January 2027, the price will be £28, including postage.
You can order your uniform when registering. For a comfortable fit, we recommend ordering two sizes larger than your usual UK size; however, please also refer to the previous message regarding sizing.
Clearer breakdowns of course income, improved banking processes, and an updated expenses policy.
To support the ongoing development and modernisation work across the scheme.
To ensure it remains fit for purpose and supports the long-term goals of EBCS.
A full update will be shared once the review is complete, and the new constitution will be presented at an AGM for approval.
Level 2 and Level 3 coaches may apply. When registering, select the relevant box or boxes.
Level 3 coaches and experienced Level 2 coaches. Just tick the relevant box(es) when registering.
Email [email protected].
The Pro Tem Executive Committee
English Bowls Coaches Society