Paul Thompson - Director of People and Learning
Coach Core Foundation
Workshop speaker - Employer Insights and Lived Experience - Building a Diverse, Skilled Workforce through Apprenticeships
Education and Career Development
Paul leads the Programmes team at Coach Core Foundation, the department responsible for delivering and evolving the charity’s award-winning apprenticeship programme. His team oversees all aspects of programme design and delivery — including apprentice recruitment, employer partnerships, education and mentoring support, post-programme progression, and graduate engagement. The team also drives Coach Core’s work on research, impact measurement, strategic partnerships, and policy influence.
With over 20 years’ experience in sport, education and youth development, Paul is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for young people who’ve faced barriers. He also contributes to national policy and workforce standards through his roles with Skills England, Apprenticeship APPG and CIMSPA, helping shape a more inclusive and joined-up skills system for the sector.
