Marvin OnumonuBritish Gymnastics coaches Harriet Heys and Paul Hall have been chosen for UK Sport’s ‘New Supporting Coaching in High-Performance Sport’ (SCiHPS) programme to boost coach development.
The scheme aims to give coach developers the practical skills and knowledge to support coaches ahead of the 2026 and 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
It includes fieldwork, seminars, supervision and collaborative learning with a focus on effective and ethical coaching within the British Olympic and Paralympic set-up.
Michelle Vernon-Way, head of coach development at British Gymnastics, said: “The SCiHPS programme is a truly invaluable opportunity for British Gymnastics.
“It allows us to invest deeply in the professional growth of our coach developers – including Harriet and Paul – who are already making a significant impact within our coaching community.
“Programmes like this don’t just help individuals grow; they strengthen our whole system.
“They support a culture of excellence, collaboration, and ethical practice across the sport.”
Vernon-Way added: “High-quality coach development is key to helping both coaches and athletes thrive in high-performance environments, and we’re incredibly proud to be part of this pioneering initiative.
“What’s more, this kind of investment benefits the wider coaching workforce and, ultimately, the athletes – by creating stronger pathways and better support for everyone involved.”
Vernon-Way said that Heys and Hall’s involvement in the scheme is backed by a strategic commitment from British Gymnastics to coach development.
She added: “This not only makes our team stronger but also shows that British Gymnastics is leading the way in coach development.
“Being part of the SCiHPS programme shows our commitment to long-term coaching excellence. It’s not just about medals or podiums – it’s about building a legacy.
“We want to develop thoughtful, reflective, and well-supported coaching professionals who will shape the future of gymnastics for years to come.”
