At a Glance
- Tasks: Coach university athletes in canoe slalom and enhance their performance at competitions.
- Company: Paddle UK, the governing body for Paddlesports, promoting inclusivity and potential in paddling.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, flexible dress code, free parking, and employee benefits platform.
- Other info: Part-time role with opportunities for travel and collaboration with top universities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and help aspiring athletes reach their full potential in an exciting sport.
- Qualifications: National coaching qualification and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 15960 - 15960 £ per year.
Paddle UK is the governing body for Paddlesports. We have had many advances in our sport and paddling now covers a wide range of interests and passions as a sport and a leisure activity for all. We want to support and provide opportunities for everyone to enjoy and realise their potential within all aspects of paddling regardless of their age, background or ability.
Salary range: £15,960.00 per annum (FTE £26,600 per annum)
Department: Talent Programme
Reports to: England National Talent Coach (Central/Northern)
Location: Paddle UK Offices, National Water Sports Centre, Adbolton Lane, Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham, NG12 2LU
Working Pattern: Part time, 22.2 hours per week, with regular mornings and weekend work and domestic and international travel required.
Closing date: 1 June 2026
Interview dates: Week commencing 8 June 2026
The Role
In collaboration with the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, the University Performance Coach is a critical part of the England Slalom Talent Programme and will be based at the Paddle UK Offices in Nottingham. This part time coaching role will play a crucial role in supporting the development and performance of identified university student athletes from Nottingham partner universities and performance focused Holme Pierrepont Canoe Club (HPPCC) paddlers in order to optimise performance delivery at identified British University and College Sport (BUCS) events and GB national team selection.
This role holder will also lead on the structure of England Whitewater training camps and support the preparation and delivery of identified Slalom School Programme camps. This is a thrilling chance to work with athletes aspiring for high performance, coordinating and delivering coaching support, focused on enhancing student athletes' enjoyment, development and performance and helping them achieve their absolute potential.
- Provide a programme of training and coaching support for identified athletes ensuring quality coach delivery and provision that meets the individual athlete and wider group needs.
- Support preparation opportunities and provide coaching delivery at both Canoe Slalom and White Water Racing BUCS events and U23 GB Team selection events in order to maximise athlete event performances.
- Support the planning and delivery of the Canoe Slalom BUCS events when hosted by Nottingham Universities in order to support event delivery.
- Support the university’s sport scholarship team in the identification and recruitment of talented student athletes to partner universities.
- Delivery of quality coaching provision to Holme Pierrepont CC slalom members within performance group sessions.
- Lead on developing a calendar of England Whitewater training camp provision and work with the Canoe Slalom Junior Pathway Lead and contracted coaches to ensure provision for these camps is covered.
- Support the delivery of Slalom Schools, working closely with the Regional Pathway Coach and other members of the Talent team.
- Work alongside, and in conjunction with, university performance support staff to help support the delivery of the athletes training programme and performance goals.
- Attend regular review and planning meetings in order to best support provision and ensure successful fulfilment of the Nottingham University Partnership agreement.
About You
You’ll be someone who has a passion for canoe slalom performance coaching. You enjoy developing paddlers on a performance trajectory, are able to juggle priorities and keep complex programmes running smoothly.
Essential Skills and Experience
- National coaching qualification, with a minimum Canoe Slalom Coach Award or equivalent.
- Has excellent technical knowledge, performance planning skills and a deep understanding of the components of Canoe Slalom Performance and long term athlete development principles.
- Ability to develop, deliver and modify, as required, individualised training and preparation programmes to improve the performance of athletes targeting finals at age group World Championships.
- Strong leadership and communication skills with a clear ability to inspire and motivate.
- Team player and willing to embrace an integrated and collaborative approach to talent development.
- Able to deal with conflict and to confront issues and challenges in a timely and appropriate manner.
- Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and a diverse work portfolio.
Desirable Skills and Experience
- Proven track record of operating at Junior/U23 World and European Championship level.
- Awareness of safeguarding procedures in working with children and young people.
- Has a degree level of education in a relevant subject.
- Has a Canoe Slalom Performance Coach award.
- Take a collaborative, team-focused approach.
- Build positive relationships with partners, stakeholders and volunteers.
- Show initiative and a 'can do' attitude.
- Stay calm and adaptable in a changing environment.
- Take ownership of their development and performance.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (Pro rata for part time employees).
- Dress for your day.
- Free onsite parking and bike storage.
- Company pension scheme.
- Employee benefits platform (including Bike to Work, Health and Wellbeing and discounts).
University Performance Coach (Part time) employer: British Canoeing
Paddle UK is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the heart of Paddlesports in a vibrant and supportive environment. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have access to professional development opportunities while contributing to the success of aspiring athletes at prestigious events. Located at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham, enjoy a collaborative work culture that values passion for performance coaching and promotes a healthy work-life balance with generous benefits.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land University Performance Coach (Part time)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the paddlesports community, whether it's through social media or local clubs. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Paddle UK and their initiatives, especially around the England Slalom Talent Programme. Show them you’re not just passionate about coaching but also about their mission to support paddlers of all backgrounds.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your coaching pitch! Be ready to discuss how you can enhance the performance of university athletes and what unique strategies you bring to the table. Make it clear that you’re all about helping them reach their potential.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Paddle UK team!
We think you need these skills to ace University Performance Coach (Part time)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for canoe slalom coaching right from the start! Share your experiences and what drives you to help athletes reach their potential. A genuine passion can really make your application stand out.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission at Paddle UK, so be specific about your relevant qualifications and achievements.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Canoeing
✨Know Your Paddlesports
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of canoe slalom and the latest developments in paddlesports. Familiarise yourself with Paddle UK's mission and how they support athletes. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Coaching Skills
Prepare to discuss specific coaching experiences where you've developed athletes or led training programmes. Be ready to share examples of how you've tailored training to meet individual needs, especially for high-performance athletes targeting competitions.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Paddle UK values collaboration, so be prepared to talk about your experiences working within a team. Highlight instances where you've successfully collaborated with other coaches, stakeholders, or athletes to achieve common goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your understanding of the role and the organisation. Inquire about their approach to athlete development or how they measure success in their programmes. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
