Snowsport England announces the return of SheLeads – Applications Open Now for Second Intake
Snowsport England is proud and excited to announce the return of the SheLeads programme, as we launch applications for our second intake—building on the incredible success of the first cohort and continuing our commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse snowsports community.
Why SheLeads?
Women have historically been underrepresented in snowsports coaching roles, limiting both career opportunities and the visibility of female role models within the sport. Research conducted in partnership with Loughborough University identified key barriers—including limited access to mentoring and challenges in progressing through qualifications. SheLeads is designed to tackle these challenges head-on, creating real pathways for women to enter and advance within coaching.
SheLeads has already made a powerful impact. Last year, our inaugural cohort brought together 12 inspiring women from across the snowsports landscape, ranging in age from 16 to 55 years old. They represented a truly diverse mix of backgrounds—from grassroots participants to elite athletes, including Olympians.
“My mentor has help me to overcome my imposter syndrome, she builds confidence in my own skiing and is my biggest cheerleader. She’s more than a mentor she’s become a friend” GA.
“It’s great to be part of a big community which I never knew was there. I didn’t realise there are so many females with such diversity across the industry” CL.
“It’s nice to hear that I am not the only one struggling in a male-dominated environment, especially at FIS level. Hearing that others have the same struggles, normalises it and I now have a safe space to chat” SM.
Since the programme began, participants have been working towards and achieving a wide range of qualifications, from Level 1 instructor through to Park & Pipe Level 2, roller ski instructor, and Level 3 alpine coaching qualifications. The majority have already completed their courses, marking a significant step toward increasing the number of qualified female coaches and instructors in England. This success highlights exactly why SheLeads matters.
Introducing SheLeads 2026
We are now offering 10 spaces for the second intake of SheLeads. It will begin in October 2026 and run over an extended 24-month programme, providing even greater opportunity for development, support and long-term impact.
As part of the programme, applicants will receive: a funded Snowsport England coaching or instructing qualification, a dedicated female mentor, coaching development workshops and more.
The programme will kick off with a special in-person launch event in October, where new participants will meet the first SheLeads cohort and mentors, celebrating their achievements as they complete the programme and welcoming the next generation into the network.
For more details, please read the application form.
Deadline to apply: Monday 22 June 2026
Who can apply?
Applicants must be female, aged 16 or over, living in England and be a proficient skier or snowboarder. The programme is open to those new to coaching as well as those looking to advance their qualifications.
Funding is available for a wide range of Snowsport England courses (subject to eligibility), with places awarded based on individual applications and development needs, as decided by a selection panel.
If you have any questions regarding the SheLeads programme, please contact Gemma at: gemmaw@snowsportengland.org.uk.