The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has launched a new online learning management system that will support coaches and volunteers at all levels of the game.

As of March 2026, there is now a mandatory three-step process to complete before progressing on the Coach Development Pathway; starting with Garda Vetting and then followed by Safeguarding and First Aid modules, which are now accessible via meandmylearning.ie
 
All coaches are reminded that they must complete the Garda Vetting process before starting their coaching journey, as this is mandatory for all individuals (paid or voluntary) working with children under 18 or vulnerable adults.
 
From there, coaches can avail of several courses from the Me & My Ball series, which aims to help more kids enjoy more opportunities to play football through a varied games programme.
 
Amongst the courses that will be available on meandmylearning.ie are:

• Safeguarding
• First Aid
• Me & My Ball Overview
• Me & My Ball Skills
• Me & My Ball Teammates
• Me & My Position
• Me & My Club
• Goalkeeping Introduction

 
FAI Director of Football John Martin said: “It is essential that we provide modern, accessible ways for parents, coaches and volunteers to learn and develop as they play a vital role in the delivery of Irish football. That is why the launch of meandmylearning.ie is most welcome as it allows all coaches to complete the mandatory modules and progress, at their own pace, through the Coach Development Pathway.
 
“It is important to note that the Safeguarding 1, Garda Vetting and First Aid modules are now mandatory for all coaches to complete. This is something that was highlighted in the FAI Education & Development Strategy as we look to utilise e-learning as an accessible method for compliance, development and ease of access for learning.
 
“We will continue to add more on-demand learning modules to this platform to put an even greater emphasis on informal development as part of the Me & My Learning series.”
 
To register for First Aid and Safeguarding 1, see links below:

First Aid
Safeguarding 1