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- Tasks: Assist in coaching and developing young athletes aged 14-18 in hockey.
- Company: Join the Bury St Edmunds Talent Academy, a top youth sports programme in East Anglia.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on coaching experience and develop your skills in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping future sports stars and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Passion for coaching, experience at County level or higher, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Availability for evening and weekend sessions is essential; commitment to personal development is key.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
We are seeking to recruit a new Talent Academy (TA) performance coach to join the existing team at Bury St Edmunds, working with athletes aged 14-18 across East Anglia. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to talent development, working with athletes with the potential to become international players or high-level university and club athletes.
About the Talent Academy
Our TA is based at Culford Hockey Centre near Bury St Edmunds and is one of 24 across the country for the highest level of youth players. We serve clubs and schools in Norfolk, Suffolk, and South Lincolnshire, supporting around 60 players through nearly 100 hours of coaching from September to July, culminating in a national festival in July. The programme includes Monday night training, occasional Sunday sessions, fixtures, and off-pitch/online learning. The TA is led by Lisa Letchford, a current England U21 assistant coach and former England Hockey Lead Talent Coach.
Role Overview
The successful candidate will join the on-field coaching team, working alongside lead coaches to develop a team of three coaches per squad (boys and girls).
The Person
- Passionate about becoming a high-performance coach with relevant experience and knowledge in hockey techniques, tactics, and coaching trends.
- Experience coaching at County level or higher.
- Understanding of talent development principles and athlete progression.
- Experience in planning and delivering high-performance coaching programmes for junior athletes.
- Innovative coaching approach tailored to individual and team needs.
- Strong communication skills for engaging with coaches, players, parents, and managers.
- Self-motivated, organized, and able to work independently or as part of a team.
- Committed to personal development and equality in sport.
- Adherence to health and safety policies and the England Hockey Code of Ethics.
Responsibilities
On Pitch
- Assist in planning and delivering high-quality training sessions.
- Support team cohesion and consistency during training and competitions.
- Help select players for the programme and fixtures.
- Ensure safety and represent the academy positively.
- Availability for at least 90% of scheduled activities, including evenings and weekends.
Off Pitch
- Player profiling and performance management.
- Maintain communication and support for athletes outside training sessions.
- Participate in online learning sessions (~6 per cycle).
This role description may be amended as needed to meet the evolving needs of the TA. To apply, please email a cover letter and a hockey CV detailing your playing and coaching history.
Bury St Edmunds Talent Academy: Assistant Coaches employer: England and Great Britain Hockey
Contact Detail:
England and Great Britain Hockey Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Bury St Edmunds Talent Academy: Assistant Coaches
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former coaches in the hockey community, especially those involved with talent academies. Attend local matches or coaching clinics to make connections and learn more about the coaching landscape.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest coaching techniques and trends in hockey. Consider attending workshops or online courses that focus on high-performance coaching to enhance your knowledge and skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your passion for talent development by volunteering at local clubs or schools. This hands-on experience will not only boost your CV but also show your commitment to nurturing young athletes.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your coaching philosophy and how you tailor your approach to meet individual athlete needs during interviews. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully developed players in the past.
We think you need these skills to ace Bury St Edmunds Talent Academy: Assistant Coaches
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure your cover letter specifically addresses the role of Assistant Coach at the Bury St Edmunds Talent Academy. Highlight your passion for coaching, relevant experience, and understanding of talent development principles.
Detail Your Coaching Experience: In your hockey CV, provide a comprehensive overview of your coaching history, including any experience at County level or higher. Be specific about the age groups you have worked with and the types of programmes you have delivered.
Showcase Your Skills: Emphasise your innovative coaching approach and strong communication skills in both your cover letter and CV. Mention how you engage with players, parents, and other coaches to foster a positive training environment.
Highlight Commitment to Development: Express your commitment to personal development and equality in sport. Mention any relevant courses or certifications you have completed that align with the values of the Talent Academy.
How to prepare for a job interview at England and Great Britain Hockey
✨Show Your Passion for Coaching
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for coaching and working with young athletes. Share specific examples of how you've inspired or developed players in the past, as this will demonstrate your commitment to talent development.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss your coaching experience, especially at the County level or higher. Be prepared to talk about your understanding of hockey techniques and tactics, and how you've applied them in your coaching sessions.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Since you'll be engaging with players, parents, and other coaches, it's crucial to showcase your communication skills. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and consider how you can foster a positive environment for everyone involved.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and coaching philosophy. Think about scenarios you might face on the pitch, such as managing team dynamics or adapting training for individual needs, and prepare thoughtful responses.
