December 12, 2024 – With over 9,250 enrolments and an impressive 71.1% course completion rate, the Special Olympics Australia (SOA) Inclusive Sport Academy is setting new standards for inclusive sports education in Australia.
This innovative Learning Management System is designed to empower educators, coaches, volunteers, tertiary students, allied health professionals, and inclusion advocates with tailored eLearning solutions. Special Olympics Australia developed the platform with a clear mission to provide the knowledge and tools needed to create inclusive sports environments that enhance opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism.
Since its inception, the Inclusive Sport Academy achieved several significant milestones. Learners have completed 6,580 courses at a completion rate of over 71% – a figure far exceeding global online learning averages, where typical completion rates for self-paced courses range between 3% and 15%.
The platform also demonstrated remarkable engagement, with users spending an average of over 15 minutes per session interacting with the tailored eLearning resources. These results demonstrate the high-quality learning content available and the commitment of its learners to create lasting impact through inclusive sport.
At the heart of the Inclusive Sport Academy’s success is its 20 bespoke eLearning courses and many resources, designed to meet the needs of our varied audiences – from Special Olympics volunteers and coaches to teachers and allied health professionals. These courses equip participants with practical strategies and techniques that are geared to practical application, elevating coaching and teaching practices whilst encouraging lifelong participation in a variety of sports.
This success has been made possible through a long-term, trusted partnership with Playbk Sports. Combining deep expertise in sports and education, Playbk Sports has collaborated with Special Olympics Australia to develop research-backed, impactful eLearning courses that address the unique needs of participants. This enduring partnership reflects a shared commitment to using education and technology to advance inclusion, ensuring the Inclusive Sport Academy continues to deliver world-class eLearning solutions.
Looking ahead, we are excited by our ambition to reach 20,000 learners in 2025. This bold target aims to expand the Inclusive Sport Academy’s impact, with a focus on reaching more learners across Australia. To support this initiative, Special Olympics Australia will introduce three new bespoke eLearning courses focused on coach and program development, further enhancing the platform’s ability to empower coaches and clubs in delivering inclusive sports experiences.
Our Inclusive Sport Academy is supported by the Australian Sports Commission’s Play Well Participation Grant Program, which helps deliver inclusive, high-quality sport and physical activity programs.
This funding allows SOA, via the Inclusive Sport Academy, to help tens of thousands of Australians participate in sport and physical activity, breaking down barriers to inclusion.
SOA also extends its heartfelt thanks to Gallagher, whose partnership and support for coach development has been instrumental in delivering coaching and sporting experiences for individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism.
Pierre Comis, CEO of Special Olympics Australia, reflected on the Inclusive Sport Academy’s achievements and future vision.
“The Inclusive Sport Academy exemplifies our commitment to building an inclusive sporting community. Its success reflects the dedication of our team and the unwavering support of our partners. As we look to 2025, we are excited to expand our reach and continue making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism”
Special Olympics Australia invites teachers, coaches, health professionals, and inclusion advocates to register for the Inclusive Sport Academy and join the inclusion revolution.
Stay tuned for the launch of exciting new courses in early 2025, as the Inclusive Sport Academy continues to lead the way in inclusive sports education.
Learn more and register at Inclusive Sport Academy
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Special Olympics Australia media contact:
Amy Miller – GM Marketing
M: 0410 307 195
About Special Olympics Australia
Special Olympics Australia is part of a global community that brings sport, joy and inclusion to people with intellectual disability and/or autism. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to join, have fun, make friends and discover new skills, which may even lead them to representing Australia.
About Playbk Sports
Founded in 2015, Playbk Sports is a leader in delivering personalised eLearning and fitness technology solutions tailored to the unique needs of sports organisations. With partnerships across various sporting codes, including the NFL, Gold Coast SUNS, Brisbane Broncos, Special Olympics Australia and AusCycling, Playbk Sports continues to drive innovation and meaningful impact within the sports and education sectors.
