Foundation Phase Coach — Develop Young Players in Stoke-on-Trent

About The Role

To coach and develop players primarily within the Foundation Phase (U8–U11), supporting their long‑term development and progression along the player pathway. The role contributes to preparing young players for the highest levels of professional football by delivering a high‑quality coaching programme aligned with the Club’s philosophy and performance plan.

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work collaboratively with the Lead Foundation Phase Coach to support the development of players aged 8–11.
• Contribute to and deliver a comprehensive player development programme that maximises opportunities for young players to reach their full potential, in line with the Club’s performance plan and coaching philosophy.
• Monitor and assess Academy players during training and games, maintaining accurate and up‑to‑date records on the FIP in accordance with Academy, ASA and EFL requirements.
• Create and maintain a positive, safe and engaging learning environment during training sessions and matchdays.
• Provide appropriate playing opportunities for all squad players and trialists, following the games programme policy and maintaining clear communication with relevant Lead staff.
• Coach and manage an assigned age group, monitoring attendance and maintaining regular liaison with parents to ensure clarity around fixtures, coaching, player development and administrative requirements (e.g., DISCs).
• Contribute to the Scouting and Recruitment process where appropriate, including assisting at grassroots fixtures or events.
• Participate in the Academy’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme for Elite Coaches.
• Undertake personal CPD to meet role requirements, including work through the CCF and DAP, and progress toward relevant qualifications.
• Contribute to in‑house CPD events, parent evenings, mid‑year and annual player reviews.
• Attend Multi‑Disciplinary (MD) meetings every 12 weeks to support player reviews and contribute to registration or de‑registration decisions.
• Undertake pastoral and welfare duties in partnership with the Head of Education and Player Care, maintaining professional and confidential relationships with parents, teachers and other relevant individuals.
• Carry out any other duties appropriate to the role as directed by Academy management team.

About The Candidate

Essential Requirements

• UEFA C Licence and working towards UEFA B Licence.
• FA age‑appropriate coaching certification.
• Enhanced DBS check (current).
• Experience working with the 8‑11 age group.
• Safeguarding qualification.
• First Aid qualification.
• FA Youth Modules / FA Youth Award (desirable).

Preferred Experience

• Experience in a permanent coaching capacity within professional football.
• Experience working across a variety of schoolboy age groups.

About The Club

This job description is not exhaustive. Duties and responsibilities may evolve based on the needs of the Club. The post holder must undertake all relevant training, including ongoing CPD, and must always uphold the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical behaviour. Port Vale F.C. is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

All appointments are subject to:

• Satisfactory Enhanced DBS check (with children’s barred list check)
• Appropriate references

The post holder must adhere to the Club’s Coaches Code of Conduct, Child Protection Policy, Health & Safety Policy, and emergency procedures, and must take responsibility for the safety of all players under their guidance. Evening training sessions and weekend match days are a required part of the role. Due to the nature of the position, flexibility is essential, and working hours will vary based on operational needs.

Safeguarding Statement

Port Vale Football Club is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and adults at risk. All employees are expected to share this commitment and promote a safe environment at all times. Applicants will be asked to declare any previous convictions, cautions, or reprimands, including those considered “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amended 2013).

Health & Safety Core responsibilities:

• Lead by example in maintaining safe and responsible practice.
• Ensure safety and risk considerations are integrated into all activities, working with the Head of Academy Education, Safeguarding Lead, Player Care Officer, and relevant staff.
• Promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment to support holistic player development.

Equality Statement

Port Vale Football Club is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment and is proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the grounds of race, ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, age, pregnancy or maternity. All staff must conduct themselves in accordance with the Club’s policies and demonstrate a positive commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Employees are expected to treat all internal and external stakeholders with fairness, dignity, and respect, and must not engage in any form of direct or indirect discrimination, victimisation, or harassment of any kind.