Copy the Coach

Learning

Observation, coordination and confident movement copied straight from the coach.

Equipment

No kit needed

Best group

Whole class facing the coach

Space / set up

Children in a wide arc facing the coach.

Duration

4–6 minutes

Skills

Movement, Passing, Jumping & landing

• Children face the coach in a loose arc with plenty of room.
• Coach stands at the front, high enough to be seen by the back row.

1. 1Coach performs a movement, children copy immediately.
2. 2Work through quick feet, side steps, jump and land, squat, turn.
3. 3Add balance, reach and a rugby passing shape.
4. 4Keep transitions quick so there is no waiting.
5. 5Finish with a controlled movement before calling PAWS/READY.

• “Eyes on me!”
• “Copy my movement!”
• “Ready for the next one!”

This activity is suitable for ages 3–7. Choose a stage to see the coaching guidance for that group.

Simple whole-body movements, slower changes.

• Teacher mirrors the coach at the back of the group so nobody is guessing.
• Keep the arc wide rather than deep.

Make it easier: Slow the movements down.

Level it up: Perform a sequence of 2–3 movements for the children to remember.

• Sequence memory

  Three movements in order, no demonstration second time.

• Child coach

  A child leads one round from the front.

P: eyes on the coach and go • S: land and move under control