A new training initiative is aiming to 'retool the physical activity workforce' to help businesses recover after lockdown.

Funded by Sport England, the £1.5m ReTrain scheme has been set up to support employers by providing free training for staff, enabling them to work in new roles.

Delivered in phases, the training provided through ReTrain will be delivered by training companies accredited by CIMSPA.

During Phase 1, the focus will be on courses that lead to new CIMSPA-endorsed qualifications in areas such as group exercise, gym instructors, personal trainers, swimming teachers, lifeguards, sports coaches and pool plant operators.

In subsequent phases, later this year, ReTrain will also provide support for courses that deliver CPD points.

As a key part of ReTrain, CIMSPA has partnered with the Royal Life Saving Society to provide £400,000 of lifeguard training. This will help to meet an urgent need for around 11,000 new lifeguards to be trained, allowing swimming pools to open safely.

"There is a real risk of a significant number of people (in the sports and physical activity sector) not returning to work in the sector after lockdown," said Colin Huffen, head of education at CIMSPA.

"ReTrain is a major investment in addressing this and helping employers to plug any skills gaps they have, enabling them to continue providing this vital service to the public."

Any employer in England in partnership with CIMSPA, ukactive or Community Leisure UK can find out more and apply using the dedicated ReTrain website (click here).