Members’ FAQ — updated 29 July 2026
This FAQ has been put together to keep members informed, answer common questions, and explain the positive steps being taken to strengthen EBCS for the future.
Like many long-established organisations, EBCS has reached a point where change is needed to keep pace with modern expectations, improve communication, update outdated systems and materials, and make sure the scheme remains relevant, professional and fit for purpose. These changes are about building a stronger, more efficient and more member-focused organisation that can support coaches, trainers, assessors and bowlers more effectively in the years ahead.
This document will be updated as and when we receive new queries. 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.
A completely new member system, online membership updates, tailored access for trainers and assessors, online manuals, and automated reminders for renewals.
You can see it in action in our new website announcement, which includes a full walkthrough video.
Yes. Members will have secure access to all coaching materials and personal information.
The current email database is no longer reliable. A new email-based system will be created when the website goes live.
All manuals — Levels 1, 2 and 3, Club Coach, New Bowler and CPD — will be released in October 2026.
A full breakdown of every manual and guide is included in the members’ update presentation.
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.
The Board agreed that the current manuals are no longer relevant, and that continuing to use them would damage the image of EBCS.
All ongoing training had to be completed by 1 July 2026. This deadline has now passed.
No. Qualifications will resume once the new manuals are released.
We are on course to restart training coaches, but we urgently need Trainers and Assessors — see section 14 below.
No. There are no plans to change anyone’s current qualification level. In time we will look at ways to update qualifications where necessary.
There are three routes:
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 goes live in October, we will provide details of at least two recommended courses and explain how coaches can access them.
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.
We will continue to post updates on the current website. In addition, we are arranging a series of online meetings and regional visits, which will give members the opportunity to ask questions and give feedback directly to the committee.
If you can help to arrange a regional meeting, please get in touch.
Yes. A modernised uniform will be available from October. Before the new uniform becomes available, we will produce and share a clearer sizing chart to help members choose the correct size.
You can see the new design in A New Era — The New EBCS Coaching Uniform.
The first 500 registered members can buy one top at a subsidised price.
All old stock, books, uniform badges and similar items have been written off and are no longer available.
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.
Thank you to everyone who has already contacted us and completed a Trainer or Assessor application. We still need more Trainers and Assessors, so if you are able to help, please get in touch as soon as possible.
Level 3 coaches and experienced Level 2 coaches.
Thank you to everyone who has already contacted us about becoming an Area Coach. Area Coaches will help support, guide and mentor coaches within their local area, acting as a point of contact between members and EBCS. We still need more Area Coaches, so if you are able to help, please get in touch as soon as possible.
Email [email protected].
Full details and an application form are available in Help Us Strengthen Coaching in England.
The Pro Tem Executive Committee
English Bowls Coaches Society