Lead Pre-Academy Coach

Role Responsibilities

• Lead on the design and implementation of the pre-academy coaching programme.
• Manage the pre academy development centre programme along with regular festivals and in-house games programmes.
• Alongside the Head of Academy Recruitment and Head of Academy Scouting, implement a clear process in identifying the best young talent to progress from the Pre-Academy into the U9s Academy team.
• To lead on the coaching for the pre academy U8s development group.
• Responsible for ensuring that all Pre-Academy sessions are delivered in line with the [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] Academy Curriculum, closely working with the Lead Foundation Phase Coach.
• To work with the Head of Coaching to develop and upskill Pre-Academy coaches through in-house training and CPD opportunities.
• Lead review and feedback programme for Pre-Academy players, to help monitor player progress and development.
• Ensure the Academy has strong relationships with grassroots clubs within the local communities.
• Manage the Pre-Academy coaching staff regarding their roles and responsibilities, ensuring there is a clear structure which promotes continuity enabling players to progress within the pre academy environment.
• Ensure that there is clear communication across all aspects of the pre academy programme.
• To develop and maintain a professional relationship with the players and parents within the Pre-Academy, whilst always managing expectation.
• Work with the Head of Safeguarding to follow clubs safeguarding and welfare policies are met.
• Assist in the scouting process at games where required.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills & Experience

Essential Qualifications: DBS check undertaken, UEFA C Licence, FA Talent Introduction to Talent Identification.
Desirable Qualifications: FA Advanced Youth Award, FA National Talent Identification & Scouting in Football, Degree in Sports Coaching or related subject, Degree in education or teaching.

Essential Skills & Experience: Minimum three years coaching experience, experience of recruitment processes, experience of working with parents, depth and quality of experience within individual player development, ability to relate to and understand young people, demonstrating personality and enthusiasm, experience of working in pressurised situations and to deadlines, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, excellent written and IT skills, ability to adapt and change at short notice.

Desirable Skills & Experience: Experience of working in a Pre Academy, experience of working in a Foundation Phase.

Attitude/Behaviours: Proactive mentality, thinks ahead with a “can do” attitude, generates innovative ideas, works well in a cognitively diverse performance department, loyal and committed, ability to adapt quickly, strong team ethos.

Additional Information

This role requires an Enhanced DBS Check. [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] reserves the right to remove this advert if adequate applications are received. Due to high demand, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The Company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Offers are subject to satisfactory enhanced DBS Disclosure and barred list check. Online searches may be conducted for shortlisted candidates. [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all individuals, particularly encouraging applications from women, disabled people, and diverse ethnic communities.

To apply, please complete an application form available here. If you require the form in an alternative format, email [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]. Closing date: 16th February 2024.