At a Glance
- Tasks: Coach young players aged 6-8, delivering fun and engaging training sessions.
- Company: Join Crystal Palace Football Club, a historic Premier League team with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Part-time role with flexible hours, perfect for students or those seeking experience.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion in sports.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young players' development while working in a dynamic football environment.
- Qualifications: UEFA B Licence (or working towards), FA Safeguarding qualification, and coaching experience required.
Job Location: Academy Training Ground, BR3 1NZ
Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract (Part-Time)
Deadline: 2nd August 2026
Who we are: We are Crystal Palace Football Club, a Premier League Football Club with more than 160 years of proud history. Spread across three different sites - brand new main offices at Selhurst Park Stadium, our London office, and our Training Ground/Academy, we offer the best atmosphere and culture for our fans and our employees. We strive for excellence in the workplace with a philosophy of high standards, professionalism, and a strong work ethic from our employees. We are constantly trying to grow, diversify and build with not only our team on the pitch, but also our team in the offices and on the ground.
About this role: Crystal Palace Football Club is seeking passionate, enthusiastic and player-centred Part-Time Pre-Academy Coaches to support the development of players aged 6–8 within the Pre-Academy programme. Coaches will deliver engaging, age-appropriate sessions aligned to the Club’s coaching philosophy, creating an enjoyable, challenging and safe environment that supports every player's long-term development.
Responsibilities:
- Plan, prepare, deliver and evaluate high‑quality coaching sessions aligned to the Club’s coaching philosophy.
- Support the delivery of the Pre-Academy games programme, including fixtures, festivals and tournaments.
- Attend evening training sessions and weekend fixtures as required.
- Contribute to Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and player review meetings.
- Support the technical, tactical, physical, psychological and social development of young players.
- Implement Club coaching standards and game principles consistently.
- Build positive relationships with players, parents and colleagues.
- Complete all mandatory CPD, safeguarding and compliance requirements.
- Other duties and responsibilities as required by line manager.
- Upholding and promoting the Club’s policies and procedures, including Health and Safety, Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities policies and procedures.
Experience, Skills and Qualifications:
Essential:
- UEFA B Licence (or working towards).
- FA Safeguarding Children qualification.
- FA Emergency First Aid qualification.
- Experience coaching within a Pre‑Academy, Foundation Phase or grassroots environment.
- Strong understanding of how young players (ages 6–8) learn and develop.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Reliable, enthusiastic and professional approach.
- Full UK driving licence and access to transport (desirable for travel between).
Desirable:
- FA Advanced Youth Award (5–11).
- Experience working within a Professional Game Academy.
- Knowledge of small‑sided games and Foundation Phase player development.
- Existing understanding of the South London grassroots football landscape.
Our commitment to Equality: At Crystal Palace Football Club, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion is spirited and continues to grow due to the working environment, which makes all staff feel appreciated and welcomed. Crystal Palace Football Club do this by encouraging good relations and practices towards different groups and are committed to promoting employment opportunities that celebrate diversity. We are committed to attracting, recruiting, and retaining the most talented candidates and the club intends to ensure that everyone who wishes to engage with the club, whether as matchday fans, staff, players, board members, participants in Foundation programmes and any other person engaged with the club's activities, has a real and equal opportunity to do so.
Reasonable Adjustment: We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. We guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role, ensuring equitable opportunities for everyone. If you require disability-related adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact DLO@cpfc.co.uk (DLO inbox is for disability-related queries only, if you wish to gain further information regarding this vacancy, please contact cpfc.recruitment@cpfc.co.uk). We are here to help you through the whole recruitment process including trying to apply for a vacancy, getting in touch with us through the process, and/or helping with access in case you are required to come in for an interview.
Safeguarding: Crystal Palace Football Club is committed to safeguarding and ensuring the welfare and protection of children and vulnerable people and expects all staff to share this commitment. As such, the post holder will be required to undergo any relevant security checks, including a comprehensive background check, Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) to ensure the safety and protection of children and vulnerable individuals.
Pre-Academy Coach (Part-Time) Academy Training Ground employer: Cpfc Limited
Cpfc Limited offers a unique opportunity to work at the iconic Selhurst Park Stadium, where you will be part of a passionate team dedicated to maintaining a pristine environment for fans and players alike. With flexible hours and a commitment to employee growth, this role not only provides meaningful work but also fosters a supportive culture that values attention to detail and excellence in service. Join us and contribute to the legacy of a historic football club while enjoying the benefits of a dynamic workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pre-Academy Coach (Part-Time) Academy Training Ground
✨Get Involved in Local Sports Events
Find local sports events or community recreation activities in your area and offer to volunteer. This is a fantastic way to network with industry professionals, gain hands-on experience, and show your commitment to the field. Plus, it could lead directly to job opportunities in organisations like Cpfc Limited!
✨Join Sports Management Associations
Consider joining sports management associations or local clubs related to your interests—these often have member directories or job boards. Engaging with these communities can help you learn about part-time roles and connect with key people who might point you towards open positions at places such as Cpfc Limited.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re currently studying or recently graduated, don’t overlook your uni’s career services! They often have tailored resources for landing part-time roles in sports management and can help you with personalised advice, job listings, and even intro opportunities to employers like Cpfc Limited.
✨Boost Your Online Presence
Create a LinkedIn profile highlighting your interest in sports and recreation management. Share any relevant experiences or passion projects related to sports, and join LinkedIn groups focused on the industry. This can help raise your visibility in the field and may catch the eye of hiring managers at Cpfc Limited!
We think you need these skills to ace Pre-Academy Coach (Part-Time) Academy Training Ground
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sports:When applying for a role in sports recreation management, let your love for sports shine through in your CV and cover letter. Share any experiences you have managing teams, coordinating events, or working in sports facilities. This enthusiasm is infectious and is sure to catch the eye of the hiring team at Cpfc Limited.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to sports management, first aid, or coaching, make sure to list them prominently. These qualifications demonstrate your commitment to the field and your preparedness for the responsibilities of the job. Don't forget to mention any practical training that shows you're ready to jump in at Cpfc Limited.
Flexibility and Availability is Key:For part-time roles, availability can be a big plus. Mention your schedule clearly in your application, showing you're ready to work weekends or evenings if needed. This will help Cpfc Limited see you as a reliable choice who can fit in with their staffing needs.
Tailor Your Experience to the Role:When crafting your CV and cover letter, align your previous experiences with the specific requirements of the role at Cpfc Limited. If you've coordinated sports leagues, organised events, or managed budgets, make sure those get the spotlight. This way, you can clearly show how you're the perfect fit for their team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cpfc Limited
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In sports recreation management, it's all about engaging with people—be it clients, team members, or event participants. During the interview with Cpfc Limited, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully handled diverse groups and fostered positive experiences in recreational settings.
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
From managing sports facilities to understanding recreational programming, don’t forget the technical aspects of the role. Prepare to discuss specific software or tools you’ve used for scheduling events or managing participants, as this shows you're ready for the part-time responsibilities you'll be taking on at Cpfc Limited.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Sports
As this is a part-time role, passion counts for a lot! Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for sports and recreation in the interview. Talk about your experience with recreational activities—anything from coaching to volunteering—to help Cpfc Limited see the personal investment you've got in the field.
✨Think About Your Flexibility
With part-time roles, it’s essential to demonstrate your availability and adaptability. Be ready to discuss your schedule and how you can adjust to the needs of Cpfc Limited. Share examples of how you’ve successfully balanced other commitments while pursuing your passion for sports—it’ll show you’re a reliable choice for them.
