At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the next generation of elite rugby players through innovative coaching.
- Company: Join the Yorkshire Rugby Academy, a hub for developing top talent.
- Benefits: Full-time role with a supportive team and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with schools and clubs, and be part of a dynamic coaching community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young athletes' careers and shape the future of rugby.
- Qualifications: Must have Level 3 coaching award and experience in player development.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Yorkshire Rugby Academy is looking for an outstanding Lead Coach to work within our Development Phase and shape the next generation of elite players. You will play a key role in the on-field programme for our U18 & U17 provision, driving the game model, curriculum and individual development planning that underpins the whole pathway.
This is a fantastic opportunity to make a genuine impact on a development programme: you will need to be able to work with and support a coaching group, lead player reviews and feedback sessions, and work directly with England age-group coaches on the progression of our most promising players.
You will work across an established network of state and independent partner schools and clubs throughout the county, including our ACE programme partners at Bishop Burton College and Wath Academy.
The role will be supported by a full multi-disciplinary team of strength & conditioning, medical and performance analysis staff. We are very aligned as a team in our vision of having Yorkshire Rugby Academy represented in every PREM club.
Accountabilities
- Design, deliver and review rugby sessions across the Development Phase (U17 & U18 age groups), assisting on occasions with Foundation Phase (U15 & U16 age groups).
- Taking a lead on delivery and team selection at appropriate points in the season.
- Work with and further develop the game model, curriculum and block planning process across the Development Phase.
- Design, implement and review Individual Development Plans and Annual Playing Programmes for all Development Phase players and EAPs, in collaboration with the multi-disciplinary team and each player's club, school and England age-group network.
- Lead the player review process — block intentions, season reviews, EAP case conferences and exit planning — with video analysis support (Hudl).
- Help to manage and develop the contracted coaching staff as well as contributing to coach development across the Academy landscape.
- Build and maintain relationships across our partner schools and clubs and assist in identifying and recruiting the best young players in the region.
- Actively collaborate with colleagues to contribute to the development and delivery of the current strategic, business and operational plans.
- Act as an ambassador for, and promote the best interests of the RFU, including the promotion of our culture and core values – This Rose Means Everyone: Put The Team First, Shape The Future, Respect Each Other.
- Undertake other duties as may be required from time to time as are consistent with the responsibilities of the post and the needs of the organisation.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience
The skills and attributes outlined in this description are not exhaustive and we welcome candidates who can bring different relevant experiences to the role.
Essential
- England Rugby Advanced Coaching (Level 3) Award or equivalent.
- At least 3 years' experience coaching in age-grade pathway environments, with a strong, current understanding of player development.
- Effective communication and relationship-building skills across players, parents, schools, clubs and staff.
- Current RFU DBS (or willingness to obtain prior to appointment) and a full UK driving licence.
- Willingness to work the hours the season demands, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
- Strong project management skills, with the ability to work on several projects at once, prioritising and communicating priorities.
- Experience of leading and managing a team, setting high standards of performance with a focus on talent development.
- Proactive self-starter with the perseverance and ability to manage competing priorities.
- Ability to work independently and with high levels of autonomy.
- Proven time management and prioritisation skills.
- Effective interpersonal, and relationship management skills.
- Strong collaboration, influencing and partner management skills with the ability to challenge constructively.
- Significant experience of player development.
- Proven stakeholder management skills with an ability to influence at all levels.
- Self-aware; committed to continuous professional and personal development.
- Committed to embodying the ethos our culture by using our three core values – Put The Team First, Shape The Future, Respect Each Other – to guide your day-to-day decisions, actions and interactions.
- Committed to actively contributing and building an inclusive culture in your role and day to day behaviours.
Desirable
- A forward's coaching specialism is desirable.
- England Rugby Performance Award (Level 4) or equivalent.
Lead Coach — Development Phase in London employer: England Rugby
Yorkshire Rugby Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can significantly influence the development of elite players. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and professional growth, you will have access to a multi-disciplinary team and the opportunity to work closely with England age-group coaches, ensuring a rewarding career path in sports coaching. Our culture prioritises teamwork, respect, and innovation, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals dedicated to shaping the future of rugby.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Coach — Development Phase in London
✨Get Involved in Local Sports Communities
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✨Visit Sports Job Fairs
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We think you need these skills to ace Lead Coach — Development Phase in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sports:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for sports and recreation shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the industry and how it's shaped your career choices. Sharing specific experiences, like managing a team or organising an event, can really make you stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:When crafting your CV, focus on any relevant internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs related to sports and recreation management. Make sure to quantify your achievements – did you increase team participation by a certain percentage or successfully lead a project? Numbers speak volumes!
Tailor Your CV for Sports Management:Use a CV format that emphasises your skills in leadership, teamwork, and event coordination. Don’t forget to include specific training or certifications that relate to sports management, as these can set you apart from other applicants. We love seeing candidates with relevant qualifications!
Express Your Long-Term Goals:In your application, we want to see your career aspirations in sports management. Don’t hesitate to include how you envision your future in this industry and how joining England Rugby aligns with those goals. We’re looking for candidates who are not just a perfect fit for the role but are also excited about growing with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at England Rugby
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sports
When chatting with England Rugby, make sure to express your genuine love for sports and recreation. Share experiences that showcase your passion, whether it's managing a local sports team, organising events, or simply being an active participant in various activities. This helps them see you're not just a fit on paper, but also someone who truly cares about the field.
✨Showcase Your Management Skills
This role is all about managing resources and people, so be ready to discuss your leadership and organisational skills. Prepare some examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or managed a project, particularly in a sports or recreation setting. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique to make your answers concise and impactful.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect case studies or scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving and decision-making skills. You might be asked how you would handle a tricky situation, such as resolving a conflict between team members or managing a crisis during a major event. Think through these scenarios and practice how you’d articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Demonstrate Enthusiasm for Team Collaboration
In the sports and recreation management field, teamwork is essential. During the interview, be prepared to discuss how you work within a team and foster a collaborative environment. Share success stories where teamwork led to a positive outcome, emphasising how you built relationships and encouraged participation among team members to achieve a common goal.
