ELCAS Funded ICF Coach Training for Service Leavers

Many people leaving the armed forces have spent years leading, developing and looking after others. They’ve run debriefs, supported people through difficult times and helped teams perform under pressure. So it’s no surprise that coaching appeals to a lot of service leavers, either as a new career or as a skill to take into a civilian role.

If you’re eligible for Enhanced Learning Credits, you may be able to use them towards ICF accredited coach training. Here’s how the funding works, what to check before you apply and what our programme involves.

What is ELCAS?

The Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS) runs the Ministry of Defence’s Enhanced Learning Credits scheme. The scheme helps eligible serving personnel and service leavers pay for learning towards nationally recognised qualifications at Level 3 or above, with approved learning providers.

How much ELCAS funding can you get?

There are two tiers, and which one you’re in depends on how long you’ve served. The lower tier pays up to £1,000 per claim and the higher tier up to £2,000 per claim.

You can make up to three claims in total, with one claim per financial year (1 April to 31 March). You’ll need to pay at least 20% of the course fee yourself, and the scheme covers the rest up to your tier limit.

The detailed rules on eligibility, timing and how long after leaving you can still claim are set out in the MOD’s guidance, JSP 822, and they can change. Always check with your education staff or with ELCAS before you commit to a course.

What to check before you apply

The provider is ELCAS approved, and the specific course is listed against them.
You’re registered for the scheme and have enough eligible service for the tier you’re claiming.
Your claim goes in well before the course starts, because ELCAS won’t fund a course after the event.
You know what you’ll pay personally once the ELCAS contribution has been taken off.

Why ICF accredited coach training?

Coaching isn’t regulated in the UK, so the quality of training varies a great deal. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is the largest professional body for coaches worldwide, and an ICF credential is one of the most widely recognised by employers and clients. Our guide to ICF coach training explains how the different levels lead to the ACC, PCC and MCC credentials.

Our ELCAS funded ICF ACC programme

Our ELCAS funded ICF ACC coach training follows the same programme as our main ICF ACC programme. It’s delivered online over three months, in three modules of four or five days each, and led by our Master Certified Coaches, Liz Connelly MCC and Paul Starbuck MCC. Mentor coaching and the final performance evaluation are included.

Self-funded places are £4,000 including VAT. If you’re on the higher tier, an ELCAS claim could cover up to £2,000 of that, and you can pay the balance in instalments.

Once the three months are done, you build up your client coaching hours at your own pace. For the ACC credential you’ll need at least 100 hours of coaching with eight or more clients, and you’ll also need to pass the ICF credential exam.

Where coaching can take you

ICF coach training can lead in several directions. Some people set up their own coaching practice. Others move into learning and development or HR, become internal coaches within an organisation, or take a coaching approach into a management role in a new sector. If you’d like to build a business from it, our Launchpad programme helps new coaches set up a credible and sustainable practice.

Talk to us

If you’re leaving the forces and wondering whether coaching is right for you, book a call. We’ll talk through your plans honestly and help you understand how ELCAS could work for you.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use ELCAS for coach training?

Yes, as long as you’re eligible for the scheme and the course is with an ELCAS approved provider and leads to a qualification at Level 3 or above. Check the course is listed on the ELCAS website before you apply.

How much will I pay myself?

At least 20% of the course fee. With our £4,000 programme and a higher tier claim of up to £2,000, you’d pay the remaining £2,000, which can be spread in instalments.

Can I do the training while I’m still serving?

Yes, if you’re eligible, as ELCAS can be used while serving as well as after leaving. The programme is online, which makes it easier to fit around other commitments, but check the module dates against your plans.