Youth Development Phase Assistant Coach (U15-U16) Derby County Football Club

Youth Development Phase Assistant Coach (U15-U16) Derby County Football Club

Full-Time 25000 - 35000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Kick it Out

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support the Lead U16 Coach in delivering high-performance training and match day experiences.
  • Company: Join Derby County, a historic club with a passionate fan base and exciting future.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, health plans, discounts, and professional development opportunities.
  • Other info: Full-time role with weekend and evening work; commitment to safeguarding is essential.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on young players' development in a dynamic football environment.
  • Qualifications: UEFA B Coaching License and experience in youth football coaching required.

The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.

Youth Development Phase Assistant Coach (U15-U16)

Derby County are seeking to recruit a Youth Development Phase Assistant Coach (U15-U16) to join Academy Coaching at Moor Farm Training Centre.

Working for Derby County Football Club offers a unique opportunity to be part of one of England's most historic and passionately supported clubs.

With a proud legacy, a dedicated fan base, and an exciting vision for the future, Derby County offers a dynamic and rewarding work environment both on and off the pitch.

Whether you're joining the team in coaching, administration, marketing, or operations, you'll be contributing to a culture rooted in ambition, community, and progress.

Employees benefit from a collaborative work environment and opportunities for professional development.

The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the Lead U16 Coach in the planning, delivery, and review of the age-specific coaching and games programme, ensuring a high-performance environment that maximises player development.

The role will support within the Senior Youth Development Phase (U15-U16) and take a lead role for the U15 age group on match days, ensuring continuity within the player pathway and alignment with the Academy’s long-term development strategy.

  • Key Role Responsibilities
  • Support the Lead U16 Coach in the delivery of all training sessions, match preparation, and match day delivery, ensuring high standards in line with the Academy methodology.
  • Assist in implementing and reinforcing the Club's Game Craft Model in an age-appropriate and detailed manner.
  • Work closely with the Lead U16 Coach and MDT to contribute to the design, delivery, and review of Individual Development Plans (IDPs), ensuring player development remains central.
  • Provide a lead coaching role on U15 match days, including team organisation, match delivery, and post-match review.
  • Support the transition of players between U15 and U16, ensuring alignment of playing philosophy, expectations, and individual development priorities.
  • Contribute to a consistent and aligned games programme across U15 and U16 age groups.
  • Maintain strong communication with MDT staff to ensure a holistic approach to player development.
  • Assist with player monitoring, feedback, and reporting processes, including the use of relevant platforms (e. g. Kitman Labs).
  • Attend and contribute to MDT meetings, player audit meetings, and team selection discussions.
  • Support cross-phase delivery where required, including additional sessions, tours, and tournaments.
  • Contribute to parent/player communication where appropriate, supporting a transparent and professional environment.
  • Work collaboratively with all Academy departments to ensure alignment and best practice across the programme.
  • Support CPD opportunities and engage in the Club's coaching competency framework.
  • Assist with operational tasks relating to sessions, match days, and equipment as required.
  • General Responsibilities
  • Ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all players and staff.
  • Adhere to safeguarding policies and promote best practice at all times.
  • Uphold Club policies relating to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Represent the Club in a professional manner at all times.
  • Undertake any additional duties appropriate to the role.
  • Personal characteristics and experience
  • Experience working with players who have progressed through the Academy system.
  • Experience of football coaching in a professional environment.
  • Experience of coaching 11v11 format (3 Years or Over).
  • Experience in implementing policies and procedures and reviewing practices to ensure continuous improvement.
  • Strong understanding of Youth Development and EPPP frameworks.
  • Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
  • Excellent communication and listening skills with the ability to communicate effectively across all levels.
  • Ability to organise, schedule and adapt work tasks to meet conflicting deadlines and respond to changing situations.
  • Ability to support and deliver high quality coaching sessions.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team as well as independently.
  • Ability to enter data efficiently and effectively on Kitman Labs and other suitable platforms.

Qualifications

  • UEFA B Coaching License.
  • FA Advanced Youth Awards.
  • Level 2 Emergency First Aid in Football.

Salary is competitive, dependent on experience.

Excellent spoken and written English is essential for this role, as it involves clear, accurate communication in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

This is a full-time role, and due to the demands of professional football, there is a requirement for weekend and evening work.

Benefits

  • 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
  • Two complimentary staff season tickets.
  • Two complimentary staff away memberships, subject to availability.
  • Discounts with select club partners and sponsors.
  • Healthshield Cash Health Plan to support employee health and well-being and Perks for great deals and discounts.

• Participating in our employee forum, 'The Herd' and staff events!

  • Training and development opportunities.
  • Access to programmes and volunteering opportunities with Derby County Community Trust.
  • Subsidised lunchtime meals at Moor Farm.

Derby County Football Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

As part of the Club's commitment to providing a safe environment for children and young people, applicants should be aware that this post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Criminal Record Check.

Derby County Football Club is an Inclusive Club for all and is committed to Equality and Diversity.

The closing date for receipt of applications is Sunday 26 July 2026. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early.

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Youth Development Phase Assistant Coach (U15-U16) Derby County Football Club employer: Kick it Out

Kick It Out is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a positive work culture where passion for sport meets personal development. As a Football Education Coach, you will not only enjoy a competitive salary and generous annual leave but also have the unique opportunity to inspire and mentor young people in South London, making a meaningful impact in their lives. With a focus on growth and community engagement, this role offers a rewarding experience for those looking to contribute to youth development through football.

Kick it Out

Contact Details:

Kick it Out Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Youth Development Phase Assistant Coach (U15-U16) Derby County Football Club

Get Involved in Local Sports Communities

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Visit Sports Job Fairs

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Apply Through Our Website

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We think you need these skills to ace Youth Development Phase Assistant Coach (U15-U16) Derby County Football Club

Coaching Skills
Youth Development Knowledge
Game Craft Model Implementation
Match Preparation and Delivery
Individual Development Plans (IDPs)
Team Organisation
Communication Skills

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 Kick it Out 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 Kick it Out

Highlight Your Passion for Sports

When chatting with Kick it Out, 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.