Module Directory

This module focuses on developing students’ understanding of ethical theories, coaching values, and personal philosophy as central pillars of responsible and sustainable sports coaching. Through critical engagement with ethical frameworks and case studies, students will examine real-world coaching dilemmas and explore how ethical reasoning can guide decision-making in complex and uncertain environments. The module encourages students to identify and articulate their own coaching values, using reflective practice to develop a coherent and principled coaching philosophy. Drawing on concepts from ethics and applied coaching research, students will be supported to consider the long-term social and relational responsibilities of coaches working across diverse communities. Interactive seminars will provide opportunities to apply theory, analyse dilemmas, and develop practical tools for ethical coaching, fostering a thoughtful, values-driven approach to professional practice.

The aims of this module are:

• To enable students to develop and articulate a personal coaching philosophy grounded in core values and ethical principles, supporting sustainable and inclusive coaching practices across diverse communities.


• To provide students with the tools to reflect on ethical challenges in sport by integrating theoretical knowledge with real-world case studies and personal coaching experiences, fostering continuous personal and professional development as a values-led coaching practitioner.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Demonstrate a foundational knowledge of key ethical theories, values, and philosophical concepts relevant to sports coaching.


2. Describe and begin to evaluate real-world coaching dilemmas using basic ethical reasoning and theoretical perspectives.


3. Identify and explain personal values and begin to explore how they can inform the development of a coaching philosophy.


4. Reflect on the role of the coach in fostering ethical behaviour, inclusivity, and positive engagement within sport and community settings.

Indicative Syllabus:

• Introduction to ethics and philosophy in sport coaching


• Key ethical theories: consequentialism, deontology, and virtue ethics


• Introduction to values-based coaching and moral reasoning


• Analysing real-world coaching dilemmas


• The ethical component of coaching relationships


• Exploring personal and professional values in coaching


• Developing a personal coaching philosophy


• Understanding codes of conduct and professional standards (nationally and internationally)


• Sustainable and socially responsible coaching practices


• Working ethically with diverse communities and long-term development goals


• Techniques for reflective practice and ethical self-awareness (e.g., reflective journals, peer feedback)

This module will be delivered via:

• One 1-hour seminar per week
• One 1-hour lecture per week
• Two 1-hour drop voluntary support

All learning resources will be available before scheduled sessions. A variety of materials, including academic texts, case studies, podcasts, and videos, will support different learning preferences and promote engagement with ethical issues in sport coaching. Students are expected to complete the weekly readings in advance and be prepared to contribute thoughtfully to discussions on ethical theories, coaching dilemmas, and professional practice. All taught sessions, excluding practical or interactive workshops, will be recorded and accessible through Listen Again. Content, activities, and examples will reflect the diversity of the student cohort and the broader sporting community. This module promotes reflective and values-based learning. Students will be supported in developing ethical self-awareness through activities such as reflective journaling and peer feedback.