Summit

Program Philosophy and Approach

The AIS Summit Program is designed to meet the specific needs of coaches operating at the highest levels of the Australian high performance sport system. The program aims to enhance coaches' ability to explore different perspectives, challenge existing assumptions, and learn through meaningful discussions centred on real-world coaching experiences.

The program is underpinned by a learner-centred approach and the principles of social constructivism, recognising that learning is most powerful when coaches actively engage with others to share experiences, test ideas, and collectively generate new knowledge. Participants play an active role in shaping their learning journey, contributing their own expertise while learning from the experiences of other high performance coaches.

Program Objectives

The Summit Program seeks to:

• Provide authentic and meaningful professional development opportunities through collaborative and socially connected learning experiences.
• Foster an inquiry-focused culture where coaches feel their contributions are valued and develop strong professional connections across the system.
• Support the development of adaptable leaders and skilled custodians of Australian high performance sport.
• Enhance coach wellbeing by creating opportunities for ongoing connection, support and shared understanding.

How the Program Works

The program uses real-world coaching challenges as the foundation for learning and discussion.

Participants engage in regular facilitated online conversations within small groups of coaches from a range of sports. These sessions provide a safe and supportive environment for coaches to share experiences, explore challenges, test ideas, and gain insights from peers facing similar demands.

The program typically culminates in a face-to-face Summit, bringing participants together to deepen relationships, strengthen collaboration and continue exploring contemporary high performance coaching challenges.

Key Features

• Small group learning environments that encourage meaningful participation and discussion.
• Cross-sport collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Facilitated conversations focused on real-world coaching experiences.
• Opportunities to build trusted professional networks and support systems.
• A strong emphasis on coach wellbeing, connection and sustainable high performance coaching careers.

• Target Audience: Australian HP coaches coaching podium or podium ready athletes
• Nomination process: Nomination by HP-funded NSO or NIN HP Director and assessment by independent panel
• Contact:  hpcoachdevelopment@ausport.gov.auSummit Program Cohorts

Summit Gatherings and Artefacts

Alice Springs | 2022

Brisbane | 2023

Fremantle, Perth | 2024

Yarra Valley, Melbourne | 2025

Social Learning Leaders and Elders of the Summit Community