The actual process and requirements are very simple and apply to EVERYONE, whatever your previous experience in other sports, workplaces or voluntary positions.

Everyone will need the following. There are no exceptions, simple as that:-

1. A FA number called a FAN.
2. An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check
3. Safeguarding Children Qualification

Step 1
To begin with you need a FA number, called a FAN, which you may have if you have played football for a club before. If you do not have one, then go to the FA website www.thefa.com and register using the “sign in” button on the welcome page.

Step 2
Once you have your FAN, we can add you to the FA Whole Game System which we use to administer Rangers football club. This will allow us to start your Enhanced DBS check process. You will need photo ID and to be able to confirm your address, usually by providing a copy of your passport, driving license and bank or utility statement. This can take a few weeks, but it is usually quicker, sometimes days.

Step 3
The specific FA Safeguarding Children course is mandatory. It is done online and takes about 90 minutes (you do not need to complete the course in one sitting, though most people do). There is no pass or fail, but you need to complete the whole course, and then send a pdf copy of your completion certificate to Shelley our CWO. The course is £30 which you need to pay on registration, but we refund this once you have done it.

Once you have your FAN, you can do you can do your Safeguarding course whilst your DBS is in process.

After completing your Enhanced DBS and Safeguarding Child course, you can assist the lead coach at training and tournaments for under 18 players. If you want to coach open age football, then you will also need to complete the Player Welfacre course. There are other courses such as First Aid, Concussion Training and others which will make you a more rounded coach, and these can be done when time allows.

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