New online leadership and management programme for aspiring leisure managers

Individuals wanting to move into a management role within a leisure centre or health club environment can now benefit for a new and unique online Leadership and Management programme designed by Lifetime. Developed by industry specialists, staff can complete the course entirely online to enhance their skills and understanding in a duty or fitness manager capacity.

Management is one of the biggest skills gap faced by the industry. In fact, the recent Sector Skills Assessment from SkillsActive found that 37 per cent of managers are not qualified to the minimum skill level. Managers need to have a high level of understanding in management principles and leadership practice, particularly in areas such as using their initiative, communication, planning and preparation skills. The programme is an excellent foundation for a level 3 certificate which promises to develop and enhance skills such as these further.

The learner will gain management expertise and up to date techniques which can effectively be applied to roles in the leisure industry. “What makes the Leadership and Management Programme so unique is that it gives aspiring managers the opportunity to learn online at their own pace,” says Nigel Wallace, Director of Training at Lifetime. “The user-friendly technology is ideal for those who want to be able to schedule study time around current work commitments. Each activity session can be saved throughout the study meaning learners can save and return to their session whenever convenient.”

The flexible course also offers tutorials, quizzes, assessments, case studies and supporting text – all with the idea of making learning easier, more interesting and more relevant. It is mapped to the national occupational standards for management and is unique to the industry. It is a cost effective programme as modules can be bought individually or as part of a package.

As well as the skills gained throughout the course successful completion also allows individuals to use the course to count towards other management qualifications. Nigel adds: “The individuals also receive support from a mentor in the workplace, allowing them to get hands on experience and put what they have learnt from the award into practice.”

Employers can use the training as an effective tool for aspiring managers, as well as training staff into management roles it also ensures they gain the necessary skills and competencies to meet the needs of the business and offer staff personal development.