At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Academy coaching team and develop the next generation of football talent.
- Company: Birmingham City Football Club, a proud partner of the Premier League.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, mentoring, FA/UEFA qualifications, and a diploma in Professional Football Coaching.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at our core; we welcome all applicants.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in football while advancing your coaching career.
- Qualifications: PFA member with UEFA B licence; coaching experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 31500 £ per year.
Professional Player to Coach Scheme (PPCS) 2026-2027 Season
Contract Type: 23-month fixed-term
Location: Birmingham City Football Club PLC, Knighthead Performance Centre, Redhill Road, Kings Norton, Birmingham, B38 9EJ
Salary: £31,500 per annum, 37.5 hours
Closing Date: 15th June 2026
In partnership with the Premier League, PFA and EFL, Birmingham City are delighted to offer a 23 month fixed-term, full time Academy coaching role to support the development of the next generation of football coaches as part of the Professional Player to Coach Scheme 2026/27.
The scheme is open to all, and we particularly welcome applications from individuals from Black, Asian and mixed heritage backgrounds, as they are underrepresented groups amongst the coaching roles that exist across the professional game.
The development programme would see the right candidate split their time between the Academy coaching programme at Birmingham City Football Club and the Premier League’s accredited Coach Development Programme. This will help gain experience across the coaching pathway and work with multi-disciplinary teams.
The development opportunity will include:
- Mentoring and tailored support within your coaching development.
- Immersive learning experiences.
- Workshops, peer learning and reflective practice.
- Access to FA/UEFA qualification (dependent on needs and subject to availability).
- A diploma in Professional Football Coaching from Leeds Beckett University (on completion of all programme elements).
The coaching role involves helping coach players transitioning within the Professional Development Phase programme in line with the club’s playing philosophy and coaching programme, and assisting the coaching team to maximise the development of our players progressing through the Birmingham City Football Club Academy.
What we're looking for in you:
Essential criteria:
- PFA member
- Registered on or completed the UEFA B licence as a minimum.
- No prior full-time 1st team or Academy coaching at a Premier League or EFL club.
- FA Safeguarding Certificated, Emergency First Aid and enhanced DBS (to be completed prior to role commencement).
- A role model and ambassador for diversity in the game.
Desirable criteria:
- Experience of coaching a team or group of players on a regular basis.
- UEFA A Licence.
How to Apply:
Click Apply now and follow the application process - Professional Player to Coach Scheme. Reasonable adjustments are available for applicants with a disability; please contact Jay Henderson for further support in applying for this role.
Please submit a two-part cover letter along with a CV:
- Part 1 (max 500 words) to demonstrate how you fulfil the essential and desirable criteria.
- Part 2 (max 500 words) to answer all the following questions:
My motivations for applying for the PPCS Academy coach role and Premier League Coach Development Programme.
How the PPCS Academy coach role and development programme fits with my career ambitions.
How my unique expertise and lived experience will benefit the club and players.
Part 3: an up-to-date CV (Please include your PFA number).
Key Dates:
- Application Deadline: 15th June
- Email Applications and Queries to: Jay Henderson ([email protected])
- Assessment Activities: Part 1 w/c 22nd June 2026
- Assessment Activities Part 2 w/c 29th June 2026
- PPCS Induction, Lake District September 2026 (4 days)
Birmingham City Football Club and the Premier League, PFA and EFL are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. Reasonable adjustments are available for applicants with a disability. Please contact Jay Henderson ([email protected]) if you would like to discuss this further.
Equality monitoring information will be requested separately and will not form part of the selection process.
Professional Player to Coach Scheme in Birmingham employer: EFL
Birmingham City Football Club offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring coaches through the Professional Player to Coach Scheme, providing a supportive and inclusive work environment. With access to tailored mentoring, immersive learning experiences, and the chance to earn a diploma in Professional Football Coaching, employees can expect significant personal and professional growth. Located at the Knighthead Performance Centre in Birmingham, the club fosters a culture of diversity and collaboration, making it an ideal place for those passionate about developing the next generation of football talent.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Professional Player to Coach Scheme in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get chatting with coaches, players, and anyone in the football scene. You never know who might have a lead on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up at events! Attend coaching workshops, seminars, or local matches. Being visible in the community can help you make connections and show your commitment to the game.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to clubs directly, express your interest, and ask about potential opportunities. It shows initiative and passion!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it gives you a chance to showcase your enthusiasm for the Professional Player to Coach Scheme.
We think you need these skills to ace Professional Player to Coach Scheme in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Your Cover Letter Right:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure you clearly address the essential and desirable criteria in Part 1. Use specific examples from your experience to show how you meet these requirements. Remember, we want to see your personality come through!
Show Your Passion:In Part 2 of your application, let us know why you're excited about the PPCS Academy coach role. Share your motivations and how this opportunity aligns with your career goals. We love to see candidates who are genuinely passionate about coaching and player development!
Be Yourself:When discussing your unique expertise and lived experiences, be authentic! This is your chance to stand out and show us what makes you a great fit for our team. We value diversity and want to hear how your background can contribute to our club's culture.
Submit Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website by clicking 'Apply now'. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy, which is always a bonus!
How to prepare for a job interview at EFL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the coaching philosophy of Birmingham City Football Club. Familiarise yourself with their playing style and how it aligns with the Professional Player to Coach Scheme. This will show that you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Even if you haven’t held a full-time coaching role before, highlight any relevant experiences you have. Talk about your time coaching teams or groups, and how those experiences have shaped your understanding of player development. Be specific about your contributions and successes.
✨Emphasise Diversity
As a role model and ambassador for diversity, be prepared to discuss how your background and experiences can positively impact the club and its players. Share personal stories that illustrate your commitment to inclusivity in football and how you plan to foster this within the coaching environment.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you’ll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful ones that reflect your interest in the role and the club’s vision. For example, inquire about the mentoring process or how the club supports coaches in their development journey.
