Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Scout and identify young football talent for our U9-U16 academy.
- Company: Join the iconic Crystal Palace Football Club with over 160 years of history.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in youth talent identification and player development.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team and help shape the future of young athletes.
- Qualifications: Good observation skills, reliability, and a passion for football.
- Other info: Flexible volunteer role with opportunities to grow in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
Crystal Palace Football Club is a Premier League Football Club with more than 160 years of proud history. Spread across three different sites – our 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.
Job Location: London, United Kingdom
Contract Type: Volunteer
Weekends Deadline: 14th January 2026
About This Role: We are looking for enthusiastic and observant individuals to support our U9–U16 academy recruitment programme. The role involves identifying and reporting on young players with the potential to progress to a salaried position within a professional academy environment. This position is ideal for those looking to gain experience in youth talent identification and player development.
Responsibilities:
- Attend grassroots weekend fixtures U9-U16.
- Identify players demonstrating high potential for long‑term development.
- Assess technical ability, decision‑making, game understanding, physical profile, and attitude.
- Complete CPFC scouting reports.
- Communicate player recommendations to recruitment staff.
- Act professionally and discreetly at all fixtures.
- Other duties and responsibilities as required by line manager.
- Uphold and promote the Club’s policies and procedures, including Health and Safety, Safeguarding, and Equal Opportunities policies and procedures.
Experience, Skills and Qualifications:
- Good observation and written reporting skills.
- Reliability and willingness to work weekends.
- Commitment to safeguarding.
- Coaching, scouting or playing experience.
- FA / UEFA coaching or scouting qualifications.
- Knowledge of local grassroots and academy football.
Our Commitment to Equality: At Crystal Palace Football Club, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion is spirited and continues to grow. We encourage good relations 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 ensuring that everyone who engages 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. For disability‑related adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact DLO@cpfc.co.uk.
Safeguarding: Crystal Palace Football Club is committed to safeguarding and ensuring the welfare and protection of children and vulnerable people. All staff share this commitment. The post holder will be required to undergo relevant security checks, including a comprehensive background check, Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) to ensure safety and protection of children and vulnerable individuals.
Volunteer Academy Scout – U9 to U16 employer: Crystal Palace Football Club
Contact Detail:
Crystal Palace Football Club Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Academy Scout – U9 to U16
✨Tip Number 1
Get out there and network! Attend local football events, grassroots matches, and coaching clinics. Chat with coaches and other scouts; you never know who might have a lead on opportunities or insights into the academy scene.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the game! When you're at matches, be observant and take notes on players. This not only helps you refine your scouting skills but also shows potential employers that you're dedicated and proactive.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t hesitate to reach out directly to clubs like Crystal Palace. Express your interest in volunteering and ask about any upcoming opportunities. A personal touch can make all the difference!
✨Tip Number 4
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 team and contributing to the club's success.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Academy Scout – U9 to U16
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for football and youth development shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in scouting and how it aligns with our club's values.
Be Specific: Use specific examples from your experience in coaching, playing, or scouting to highlight your skills. We love details that show us how you’ve identified talent or contributed to player development in the past.
Keep It Professional: While we appreciate a friendly tone, make sure your application is polished and professional. Double-check for any typos or errors, as clear communication is key in this role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Crystal Palace Football Club
✨Know Your Football
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of grassroots football and the specific age groups you'll be scouting. Familiarise yourself with the key skills and attributes that make a player stand out, as this will help you articulate your observations during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for youth development and football shine through. Share any relevant experiences you've had, whether it's coaching, playing, or scouting. This will demonstrate your commitment to the role and the club's values.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific scouting situations. Think about how you would assess a player's potential or communicate your findings to the recruitment team. Practising these scenarios can help you feel more confident.
✨Understand the Club's Values
Research Crystal Palace Football Club's history, culture, and commitment to equality and safeguarding. Being able to discuss how your personal values align with the club's mission will show that you're not just a good fit for the role, but also for the team.
