At a Glance
- Tasks: Coach and develop rowing skills while ensuring equipment safety and maintenance.
- Company: Queens’ College, Cambridge, a prestigious institution with a vibrant rowing community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, free meals, and access to sports facilities.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and inspire the next generation of rowers at a historic college.
- Qualifications: Experience in rowing, coaching, and equipment maintenance; British Rowing Level 2 preferred.
- Other info: Flexible hours during term and out of term, with opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Queens’ College is looking for a dedicated and experienced College Boatman and Head Coach to enable, support, and develop rowing within the College Boat Club.
Overall Purpose of Job
To enable, support, and develop rowing within the College Boat Club by providing high-quality coaching and ensuring the maintenance and safety of all rowing equipment and facilities.
Main Duties and Responsibilities include:
During term time (40hpw)
- Coaching
- 20 hours/week during term time, with approximately 16+ hours of water sessions per week.
- Provide targeted coaching to college crews as required, focusing on technical development and safe rowing practices.
- Support Captains in developing and implementing training programmes.
- Accompany crews to races or training sessions as necessary.
- Equipment and Boathouse Maintenance
- 20 hours/week during term time.
- Responsible for the maintenance, repair, and safety of all boats, oars, and related rowing equipment.
- Ensure that rowing kit and equipment are kept clean and serviceable.
- Advise on and arrange equipment purchases and upgrades.
- Maintain accurate records of equipment checks, repairs, and safety compliance.
- Organise equipment use and storage with partner clubs as necessary.
Out of Term Time (20hpw)
- Continue essential maintenance and safety checks on equipment and facilities.
- Prepare for the upcoming term and training camps.
- Support any off-term rowing activities as required.
Year-Round duties and responsibilities include:
Health and Safety
- Ensure compliance with British Rowing Water Safety Code and all relevant health and safety regulations.
- Conduct and document risk assessments for the boathouse and rowing activities.
- Maintain first aid supplies and safety equipment.
- Report incidents and near misses and prepare safety reports as required.
Club Organisation and Community
- Support the organisation of club events, training camps, and outreach activities.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment for all club members.
- Minimise administrative burden on student officers.
To undertake any other duties and responsibilities:
- Appropriate to the post and as directed by the Senior Treasurer of the Boat Club.
- To support the overall work of the College as required.
Person Specification
- Extensive knowledge of rowing and safe rowing techniques.
- Proven coaching experience and ability to inspire rowers of all levels.
- Strong interpersonal and organisational skills.
- Experience in equipment maintenance and repair.
- Commitment to health and safety best practices.
- British Rowing Level 2 (or equivalent) coaching qualification.
- Valid First Aid Certificate.
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to tow a trailer.
- Experience working in an educational or club environment.
- Skills in boat repair.
Remuneration and Benefits:
- Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience.
- Final Salary Pension Scheme after qualifying period.
- 26 days’ holiday, in addition to public holidays (34 in total).
- One free meal during working hours (prepared daily by our chefs).
- Parking on-site (when available).
- Sporting facilities, including on-site gym.
- Free annual flu vaccination.
- Subsidised nursery fees.
- Subsidised sports and social events.
- Discounted membership of dental or medical insurance.
- Access to University Card, which also offers subsidised travel on – U bus between Madingley Road Park and Ride and the College.
- Subject to qualifying periods: Annual Service Awards, additional holiday entitlement and a day off every year for your Birthday.
Further details are available from the HR Office.
We have a legal responsibility to ensure all staff have the legal right to live and work in the UK. If you are made an offer of employment, we will need to verify this right before you start work.
To apply for this position, all applicants are required to complete the HR Details and Application forms and submit them, along with their CV, to jobs@queens.cam.ac.uk.
Application Dates: From Tuesday 16th December 2025 to Thursday 15th January 2026.
Queens’ College, Cambridge – College Boatman and Head Coach employer: British Rowing
Contact Detail:
British Rowing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Queens’ College, Cambridge – College Boatman and Head Coach
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the rowing community! Attend local events or training sessions to meet potential colleagues and show your passion for the sport. Networking can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your coaching skills in action! If you have the chance, offer a free coaching session or workshop. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also gives you a chance to connect with rowers and club members.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive about safety! Familiarise yourself with the British Rowing Water Safety Code and be ready to discuss how you would implement these practices. It shows you're serious about keeping everyone safe on the water.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative. Make sure to highlight your unique experiences and how they align with the role of College Boatman and Head Coach.
We think you need these skills to ace Queens’ College, Cambridge – College Boatman and Head Coach
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Rowing: When writing your application, let your love for rowing shine through! Share your experiences and what motivates you to coach and support others in the sport. We want to see that you're not just qualified, but genuinely excited about the role.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We’re looking for specific examples of your coaching and equipment maintenance experience, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to rowing. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and gets straight to the important bits.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Queens’ College.
How to prepare for a job interview at British Rowing
✨Know Your Rowing Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your rowing knowledge, especially safe techniques and coaching methods. Be ready to discuss your previous coaching experiences and how you've inspired rowers of different levels.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully organised training sessions or events in the past. Highlight your ability to manage equipment maintenance and ensure safety compliance, as these are key responsibilities for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Safety
Familiarise yourself with the British Rowing Water Safety Code and be prepared to discuss how you would conduct risk assessments. Showing that you prioritise health and safety will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with the Community Aspect
Think about how you can foster a positive environment within the club. Be ready to share ideas on outreach activities or how you would support student officers to minimise their administrative burden.