ukactive and CIMSPA have announced an expanded format for this year’s Active Training Awards, with a full day conference being organised ahead of the awards ceremony.

More than 200 delegates are expected to take part in the event – set to take place in November – which will discuss the future of skills and training within the physical activity sector.

Featuring a string of keynotes and lively panel discussions, topics to be explored will include the upcoming apprenticeship levy and the opportunities around the new Sport England strategy.

The conference will also feature a special session outlining the outcomes from the inaugural ukactive Future Leaders week at IESE Business School in Barcelona, which saw 30 of the physical activity sector’s rising stars receive a week of world-class training.

The session will explore the impact of the first Future Leaders week and how the concept will grow in future, in line with sector demand for top class management development offerings.

Meanwhile, the annual Active Training Awards – to be handed out at a gala event following the conference – will once again recognise the organisations and individuals leading the way in skills and workforce development.

This year’s categories include “Best use of Technology”, designed to recognise e-learning platforms and digital solutions that support learners and also enable flexible and interactive learning.

In total, winners will be announced in eight different categories.

Steven Ward, executive director, ukactive said: “Without doubt the biggest priority for the physical activity sector right now is the development of the workforce.

“Training providers of all shapes and sizes - apprenticeship providers, specialist training companies and employers themselves – are the beating heart of our sector and are integral to our continued progression.

“The Active Training Awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the dedication and innovation of training providers, who hold the key to getting more people, more active, more often.”

Nominations for the awards are being received and considered until 26 August. Click here to visit the ukactive website and find out more.