FTEM NSW: System level guiding framework

Learn about FTEM NSW, the participant and athlete development framework that supports lifelong sport participation and athlete pathways across NSW.

Para athlete in a racing wheelchair crosses the finish line with a guide running alongside on a blue competition course.

About the FTEM Framework

Adapted from the original FTEM Framework (Gulbin, Croser, Morley and Weissensteiner, 2013), the FTEM NSW Participant and Athlete Framework, developed by the NSW Office of Sport, informs the guidance and ongoing support provided by the Office of Sport Pathways team. It also supports the NSW Government's Future Champions: Pathways to Sporting Success strategy.

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An Introduction to FTEM NSW

Adapted from the original FTEM Framework (Gulbin, Croser, Morley and Weissensteiner, 2013), the FTEM NSW Participant and Athlete Framework developed by the NSW Office of Sport, is directly informing and supporting the guidance and ongoi

FTEM NSW is an integrated framework and systems approach that:

  • empowers participants and athletes in NSW and supports them throughout their lifelong journey in sport and physical activity.
  • supports stakeholders, including parents, coaches, volunteers, schools, universities, clubs, sporting organisations and service providers, by providing best practice guidance across every stage of the development pathway, from grassroots participation to the podium.

FTEM NSW is recognised in the national policy document Getting Australia Active III: A systems approach to physical activity for policy makers.

FTEM framework showing the pathway from physical literacy and community sport participation to talent development, elite performance and sporting excellence.

Key features of FTEM NSW

  • Represents the NSW sport and physical activity landscape by including all physical activity outcomes across active lifestyle pursuits, social sport, recreational sport and high-performance sport.
  • Outlines 11 integrated and progressive development levels across the life stages of youth, adulthood and older age.
  • Supports a best practice approach to development and progression based on individual needs, rather than chronological age alone.
  • It is flexible and can be applied to meet individual needs and development.
  • It is inclusive and supports all participants, regardless of their motivation, goals, life stage, capability or capacity.
  • It takes a holistic approach at every development level by considering individual, environmental and system factors through the integration of the 3D Athlete Development (3DAD) model (Gulbin and Weissensteiner, 2013).
  • It highlights the importance of early movement foundations and physical literacy to encourage lifelong participation in sport and physical activity.
  • It aligns with and supports the implementation of the Australian Sports Commission Physical Literacy Framework.
  • It provides organisations with a clear framework to align strategies, programs and support with each participant's stage of development.
  • It supports the effective selection, development and transition of emerging athletes through a logical and progressive approach.
  • It provides a common language for all stakeholders.
  • It uses vibrant and inclusive imagery that reflects the participants and athletes of NSW, along with key Office of Sport initiatives, including the Dads and Daughters program (Her Sport Her Way strategy), the Duke of Edinburgh's program, and support partners such as the NSW Regional Academies of Sport Network.

Resources

Masterclass webinar

Learn about the origins of the FTEM Athlete Development framework and 3DAD (3 Dimensional Athlete Development) model and how they are being used to directly inform policy, strategy, delivery and education within NSW, Australia and internationally.

FTEM flyer

FTEM NSW Systems Overview

FTEM NSW Best Practice Tips for Instructors and Coaches

Contact Pathways and Development


Email: futurechampions@sport.nsw.gov.au

More options to contact us.

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