At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver coaching for forwards and defence in a high-performance rugby academy.
- Company: Hartpury College & University, renowned for excellence in sport and education.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, wellbeing support, employee discounts, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Join a world-class rugby programme and help players reach their full potential.
- Qualifications: RFU Level 2 Coaching award and experience in elite athlete coaching required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive community with excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 Β£ per year.
Hartpury College & University are internationally recognised for excellence in sport, education and athlete development. As part of our continued commitment to developing outstanding players and people, we are seeking ambitious and values-driven coaches to join our Rugby Pathway, with a start date of the beginning of June.
These roles will play a critical part in delivering a world-class rugby programme that supports players across the Hartpury pathway to progress towards professional and international rugby, while thriving academically and personally.
Responsibilities:- Lead and deliver forwards and defence coaching across the Hartpury Male Rugby Academy, including BUCS teams and the U18s pathway, fostering a high-performance culture.
- Plan, implement and monitor weekly skills and performance programmes, using analysis tools to develop individual players, units and overall team performance.
- Attend all training sessions, BUCS/ACE fixtures and academy meetings, ensuring clear communication and feedback to players and staff.
- Collaborate with the Head of Menβs Performance Rugby and wider academy staff on strategy, player identification, recruitment, and development pathways.
- Work alongside Strength & Conditioning and academic staff to support player physical preparation and academic progress.
- Manage administrative duties, compliance with governing body regulations, and contribute to selection, trials, and retention meetings as required.
- You will hold a RFU Level 2 Coaching award, or equivalent.
- You will have played a prominent role in a high-performance rugby environment with a proven track record in age grade rugby.
- You will be able to demonstrate experience of elite athlete coaching, with rugby coaching in an educational environment advantageous.
25 days annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays rising to 30 days with length of service. Wellbeing support including our Employee Assistance Programme. Employee Discounts Scheme. Onsite fitness facilities. Cycle to Work Scheme. Support for continuous professional development. Flexible working opportunities available. Enhanced maternity, adoption and paternity leave. Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme, launching in 2026.
Hartpury is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community β a place where we can all be ourselves. We particularly welcome applicants that we are underrepresented in, including those from ethnically diverse backgrounds, LGBTQI+ communities, and those living with disabilities. As part of our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion we offer a range of inclusive policies, flexible working arrangements and a multi-faith space to support staff from different backgrounds.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
The closing date for receipt of applications is Sunday 22nd February 2026. Interviews will be held on w/c 2nd March 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy before the specified closing date should we receive sufficient applications or in order to respond to business needs. In order to avoid missing an opportunity to apply please submit your application as early as possible. Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK.
Male Rugby Academy Pathway Coach (Forwards and Defence) employer: Hartpury University and College
Contact Detail:
Hartpury University and College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Male Rugby Academy Pathway Coach (Forwards and Defence)
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the rugby community, whether it's coaches, players, or even alumni from Hartpury. They might have insider info on openings or can put in a good word for you.
β¨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If youβve got coaching videos or testimonials from players, share them during interviews or on social media. Itβs a great way to demonstrate your coaching style and effectiveness.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching Hartpury's rugby programme. Understand their values and how you can contribute to their high-performance culture. Tailor your answers to show youβre a perfect fit!
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows youβre serious about joining the Hartpury team.
We think you need these skills to ace Male Rugby Academy Pathway Coach (Forwards and Defence)
Some tips for your application π«‘
Show Your Passion for Rugby: When writing your application, let your love for rugby shine through! Share your experiences and what drives you to coach. We want to see that you're not just qualified, but genuinely excited about developing players.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to fit the role. Highlight your relevant coaching experience and how it aligns with our values at Hartpury. This shows us that you've done your homework and are serious about joining our team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm.
Apply Through Our Website: Donβt forget to submit your application through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows us that youβre tech-savvy and ready to embrace our digital approach.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hartpury University and College
β¨Know Your Rugby Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your rugby knowledge, especially around forwards and defence strategies. Familiarise yourself with Hartpury's coaching philosophy and recent performances to show that you're genuinely interested in their programme.
β¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific coaching scenarios or player development situations. Think about your past experiences and be ready to share examples that highlight your coaching style and problem-solving skills.
β¨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked with other coaches, strength and conditioning staff, and players in the past. Highlight any successful partnerships that led to improved player performance or team dynamics.
β¨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. This could be about the academy's future plans, player development pathways, or how they measure success. It shows you're engaged and serious about contributing to their vision.