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- Tasks: Lead U21 coaching, develop players, and create a winning culture in the academy.
- Company: Join Preston North End, a forward-thinking football club with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, season tickets, staff discounts, and onsite parking.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to work across various locations and teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young athletes' careers and shape the future of football.
- Qualifications: Experience in coaching, excellent organisation skills, and a passion for player development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Preston North End are looking to recruit an individual who has the required experience, qualifications and skills to fulfil the role as a Lead Senior Professional Development Phase U21 Coach. We are looking for someone with excellent organisation skills, someone who is versatile, adaptable and capable to lead a team.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- To lead on the design, implementation and delivery of coaching practices (in line with Club and Academy philosophy/principles) with the emphasis on the individual, unit and team. This will primarily be with the U21 players, but it may also relate to all full-time academy players and selected gifted and talented school age players.
- To work closely with the academy manager, first team manager and first team coaching staff with the transition of Academy Players to the club's senior squad in line with the clubs policies and procedures.
- To lead the U21 team within the selected games programme.
- Assist the Professional Development Phase Coaches in the U18's and U19's games programme as and when required to do so.
- Work with the recruitment team to identify the best available external talented players.
- Contribute to the multi-disciplinary reviews of all Academy Players in the Professional Development Phase.
- Review and analyse players performance through analysis software and review platforms.
- Support the medical and sports science departments to ensure that players are working to their peak physical and psychological capacity.
- Assist the Head of Recruitment, Loans and Player Pathway staff member to provide feedback and analysis to players.
- Work with the education and player care team to ensure players fulfil their educational and life skills targets.
- Lead on creating an elite, competitive and winning environment and culture within the academy programme.
- Logistical support - to help out with the kit, travel (minibus) as and when required.
- Any other jobs assigned by the Academy manager and academy management team.
- Form a member of the Senior Coaching Team with responsibility to further develop club philosophy and mentoring of coaches through their staff development plans.
Salary
We offer a competitive salary dependent on qualifications, skills and experience.
Location
You will be based at the Academy training complex, Springfields Training Ground, Preston, PR2 1XR, however, the role will also dictate you to work from UCLan Sports Arena, Cottam, Preston, the First Team Training Ground, Chorley, Deepdale Stadium, Preston and other various locations nationwide to perform your matchday duties.
Working hours
Your working hours will be determined by the needs of the role and shall be a minimum of 37.5 hours per week. You may from time to time be required to work additional hours as is reasonable to meet the requirements of the club's business. On occasions your role may necessitate longer hours than your contracted number. This will be kept to a minimum, but the hours are dictated by the responsibilities of the role.
What you can expect in return
- Further training and development opportunities
- Complimentary PNE season tickets for each league fixture
- Access to staff discounts
- Onsite parking
- Staff uniform
Closing date - Thursday 15th January 2026 at 5pm
Lead Senior Professional Development Phase U21 Coach employer: EFL
Contact Detail:
EFL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Senior Professional Development Phase U21 Coach
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the football coaching world, attend local events, and engage with others on social media. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your coaching achievements, player development stories, and any innovative training methods you've implemented. This will help you stand out when you’re chatting with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to clubs or academies you’re interested in and express your passion for coaching. Sometimes, opportunities arise from a simple conversation.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that dream coaching role. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to the position. Let’s get you on the right path!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Senior Professional Development Phase U21 Coach
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for coaching and player development shine through. We want to see how excited you are about leading the U21 team and contributing to their growth!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the role. We’re looking for someone who can lead and adapt, so share specific examples of how you've done this in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role without wading through unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Preston North End.
How to prepare for a job interview at EFL
✨Know Your Coaching Philosophy
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your coaching philosophy and how it aligns with the club's principles. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've implemented this in your previous roles, especially with U21 players.
✨Showcase Your Team Leadership Skills
Prepare to share experiences where you've successfully led a team, particularly in high-pressure situations. Highlight your adaptability and how you foster a competitive environment, as these are key for the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Player Development Tools
Brush up on the analysis software and review platforms used in player performance evaluation. Being able to discuss how you've used these tools to enhance player development will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Engage with the Academy's Vision
Research Preston North End's academy structure and recent developments. Show genuine interest in their approach to player care and education, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to creating an elite culture within the academy.