Head Football Coach in Newark on Trent

This part-time role leads the Academy football programme, coaching players aged 16–21 and supporting their development alongside education. You will plan, deliver, and evaluate training sessions, manage match fixtures, and maintain player welfare and safeguarding standards.

Responsibilities

• Plan, lead and deliver high-quality training sessions tailored to players’ ages, ability levels and developmental needs.
• Act as Lead Coach for the Academy programme, responsible for team selection, tactics and performance.
• Develop and implement a structured seasonal coaching plan aligned with the YCDS Education programme outcomes.
• Lead the team in competitive fixtures in the Future Lions Education League, including match preparation, team talks and post-match reviews.
• Monitor and track individual player development, providing regular feedback to players and the Academy management team.
• Integrate sports science principles (fitness, nutrition, recovery and mental performance) into the coaching programme where appropriate.

Student-Athlete Support & Welfare

• Support student-athletes in balancing football commitments with their education programme requirements.
• Monitor player welfare and wellbeing, escalating any concerns to the Academy Manager or Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Contribute to pastoral support by maintaining regular and positive communication with players about their progress and goals.

Partnership & Academy Operations

• Work collaboratively with Future Lions staff to align football activity with the wider Empowerment Programmes curriculum.
• Liaise with league administrators to manage fixture schedules, team registrations and match reporting requirements.
• Attend Academy meetings, CPD sessions and relevant club/education events as required.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, session plans, player assessments and any incidents in line with Academy policies.

Qualifications

• FA Level 2 in Coaching Football (or equivalent UEFA B or above)
• FA Level 1 minimum (working towards Level 2)
• Valid FA Safeguarding Children certificate
• Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAIF) or equivalent
• Proven experience leading and delivering football coaching sessions
• Experience coaching young people aged 16–21 in an academy, college or development setting
• Experience managing and leading a team in competitive league football
• Strong leadership and communication skills with young people
• Ability to plan, structure and deliver progressive coaching programmes
• Understanding of player welfare, wellbeing and pastoral support
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people
• Enhanced DBS clearance (or willingness to undergo a check)
• Flexible and reliable, able to work 10 hours per week, including potential match days
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable:

• FA Youth Modules or equivalent age-group coaching qualification
• Experience working in a dual-career (sport and education) environment
• Experience producing and maintaining player development plans or session records
• Knowledge of sports science, strength and conditioning or sports nutrition
• Understanding of the demands of 16–19 / post-16 education and SEND needs

What We Offer

• A rewarding part-time role combining football coaching and youth development in a progressive academy environment.
• Competitive weekly fixtures in the Future Lions Education League with both Development and Championship squads.
• Ongoing CPD and coaching development opportunities.
• A supportive team committed to the holistic development of young people through sport and education.
• The opportunity to shape and develop the football provision of a growing Academy programme.
• Career progression opportunities for further employment as a sports tutor, sports nutritionist or personal trainer, depending on your qualifications and experience.
• Additional hours may be offered to support Academy enrichment activities and external partnership programme delivery.
• Outstanding, first-class sports and teaching facilities at a brand-new £17 million development – 3G pitches, athletics track, S&C gym, on-site free parking and a cafe serving hot and cold meal options.