At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Performance Wellbeing programme for aspiring female footballers at the PGA.
- Company: Join Crystal Palace FC, a historic Premier League club with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy match tickets, health perks, discounts, and a volunteering day off.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in players' lives while promoting wellbeing and empowerment.
- Qualifications: Experience in wellbeing or player care, plus relevant qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Job Location: Academy Training Ground, BR3 1NZ
Contract Type: Full-time
Deadline: 18th June 2026
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
The Performance Wellbeing Lead is responsible for leading and developing the Performance Wellbeing programme across the Professional Game Academy and academy age groups, ensuring players receive high-quality support throughout their development journey. The role champions environments that prioritise wellbeing, empowerment and long-term success, acting as a key advocate for female players and the women's game. Working collaboratively across the multidisciplinary team, the role delivers evidence-based wellbeing provision that supports players in navigating the demands of elite football, education and personal development. Through a holistic approach, the role helps players thrive within the pathway, successfully manage key transitions and prepare for future opportunities both within and beyond football.
Responsibilities
- Act as a role model by creating a learning environment where staff take responsibility for development, reflect on mistakes and experiment.
- Model strong personal wellbeing and sustainable working practices.
- Provide clarity, feedback and support to ensure strong leadership and performance.
- Work alongside players to co-create the tailored support and feedback documented in their Individual Development Plans (IDPs) each season.
- Reflect and review the programme using evidence-based and research-backed approaches to maximise impact and ensure resources are used effectively.
- Ensure continuity of performance wellbeing support for all players, including those training or competing away from the PGA (e.g. ADRs and loans), and provide targeted input for players on Academy Contracts.
- Ensure the PGA programme adheres to or exceeds FA PGA criteria.
- Observe and provide feedback to coaches regarding their contribution to wider player wellbeing objectives.
- Ensure all PGA activities are well managed with a clear performance development philosophy.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with PGA partners (e.g., The FA, clubs, external practitioners).
- Participate in relevant audit and accreditation processes.
- Work effectively with the Academy Manager and other colleagues to ensure the smooth running of the PGA.
- Develop strong relationships with parents/carers and support them in understanding their role in their daughter’s wellbeing and personal development.
- Ensure players’ and parents’ voices are meaningfully captured and acted upon through planned, structured engagement activities (e.g. feedback forms, surveys and review meetings) throughout the season.
- Manage productive relationships with First Team staff to support players in, through and beyond their playing journey.
- Work closely with the PGA Designated Safeguarding Person to ensure the wellbeing and welfare of all players and staff is prioritised.
- Maintain positive relationships with other senior clubs where players may move.
- Upholding and promoting the Club’s policies and procedures, including Health and Safety, Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities policies and procedures.
- Other duties and responsibilities as required by line manager.
Experience, Skills and Qualifications
- Relevant wellbeing, pastoral, player care or performance lifestyle experience
- APDL / coaching / mentoring qualification (or similar)
- FA DBS
- FA Safeguarding Children
- FA Safeguarding Adults Course
- FA IFAiF / Emergency First Aid Qualification
- Recent & relevant Female Athlete Health CPD
- Degree (bachelor’s level of equivalent) in a relevant field e.g. Sports Science, Sport and Exercise Psychology.
- Ongoing professional development related to wellbeing, player care or performance lifestyle.
- Working towards a Master’s in a related discipline.
Benefits
- Complimentary match day ticket
- Reward and Discount Scheme through our Tech Scheme and Simple Health app
- Health and Wellbeing benefit scheme
- 20% Discount in our Retail Stores
- Discounts in various gyms through GymFlex
- Volunteering Day - 1 Workday off to support a charity of your choice.
- Travel Season Ticket loan
- Holiday allowance: 25 Days
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Crystal Palace Football Club is committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and fosters a working environment where all staff are valued. The club is committed to promoting employment opportunities that celebrate diversity and to attracting, recruiting, and retaining the most talented candidates. The organisation ensures that everyone who wishes to engage with the club 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). For more information regarding this vacancy, please contact cpfc.recruitment@cpfc.co.uk. We are here to help you through the recruitment process including applying for a vacancy, getting in touch, and providing access for interviews.
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. 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.
Performance & Wellbeing Lead - PGA Womens Academy employer: Crystal Palace FC
Crystal Palace Football Club is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture at our Academy Training Ground in BR3 1NZ. We prioritise employee wellbeing and professional development, providing numerous benefits such as complimentary match day tickets, health and wellbeing schemes, and opportunities for volunteering. Our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to the success of our players and the club.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Performance & Wellbeing Lead - PGA Womens Academy
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to Crystal Palace or women's football. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for wellbeing and performance! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your thoughts on how you can contribute to their mission. Bring up ideas that align with their values and demonstrate your commitment to supporting female players.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the club’s culture and recent initiatives. Tailor your responses to reflect their philosophy of high standards and professionalism. This shows you’re not just interested in any job, but specifically in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Crystal Palace family. Keep an eye on our careers page for updates and new opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Performance & Wellbeing Lead - PGA Womens Academy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through! We want to see your personality and passion for the role. Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us why you’re excited about the Performance & Wellbeing Lead position.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight your relevant experience in wellbeing and player care, and show us how your skills align with our mission at Crystal Palace Football Club.
Showcase Your Experience:Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate your expertise. Whether it’s leading a wellbeing programme or working with female athletes, we want to hear about your achievements and how they relate to this role.
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 keep you updated on your application status. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Crystal Palace FC
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of Performance & Wellbeing Lead inside out. Familiarise yourself with Crystal Palace Football Club's values, especially their commitment to wellbeing and empowerment for female players. This will help you align your answers with their philosophy during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills in wellbeing, pastoral care, or performance lifestyle. Think about how you've successfully supported athletes in their development journeys and be ready to discuss these instances in detail.
✨Engage with the Team
Since this role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, be prepared to discuss how you would build relationships with coaches, players, and parents. Highlight your communication skills and any previous experience working in a team environment to show you can foster a supportive atmosphere.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Ask about the current challenges the academy faces regarding player wellbeing or how they measure the success of their programmes. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
