Self-Employed Contractor Opportunity
Reading Students' Union | September 2026 to April 2027
Following a year out of action, Reading University Rugby Union Men's Club is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Coach to lead the club's return for the 2026/27 season.
This is an exciting opportunity to work with a talented squad of approximately 40 student-athletes and help shape the next chapter of men's rugby at the University of Reading. Alongside developing performance on the pitch, you'll play a key role in fostering a positive, inclusive and enjoyable club culture.
About The Opportunity
As Head Coach, you will use your professional expertise to lead the delivery of the Men's Rugby Union programme, supporting player development, match preparation and team performance throughout the season.
Working collaboratively with student leaders and Reading Students' Union, you will help create an environment where players can develop both competitively and personally while enjoying a positive student experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the coaching and performance of the Rugby Union Men's squad.
- Plan and deliver engaging, high-quality training sessions.
- Coach the team during BUCS fixtures, both home and away.
- Support players' technical, tactical and personal development.
- Lead team selection in consultation with student club leaders.
- Promote player welfare and safe participation, including adherence to concussion protocols.
- Support the planning and delivery of trials and pre-season activities.
- Collaborate with Reading Students' Union and the student committee to support the successful delivery of the rugby programme and discuss the delivery and development through agreed meetings.
- Comply with relevant RFU and BUCS regulations and applicable Students' Union policies relating to the delivery of services.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Engagement as an independent contractor on a fee-for-service basis
- Contract Period: September 2026 to April 2027
- Extension: Subject to review and mutual agreement
- Estimated Commitment: The Club anticipates requiring coaching services equivalent to approximately 5 to 7 hours per week during university term time
- Delivery: Services are anticipated to include evening training sessions, Wednesday BUCS fixtures, trials and other agreed meetings
- Training Fee: £25 per hour
- Home Match Fee: £100 per match day
- Away Match Fee: £150 per match day
Essential Criteria
- England Rugby Coaching Award or equivalent Level 2 coaching qualification.
- Appropriate and current first aid qualification.
- Experience coaching rugby union.
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
- Commitment to creating a positive, safe and inclusive environment.
- Strong understanding of player welfare and safe coaching practice.
Desirable
It would be advantageous if you:
- Have experience playing rugby at a high-performance, semi-professional or professional level.
- Have previous experience coaching or participating within university rugby.
Self-Employed Contractor Requirements
Applicants should be able to demonstrate that they operate on a self-employed basis and will be asked to provide:
- Evidence of self-employed status (or operation through a limited company) and legal entitlement to provide services in the UK.
- Evidence of appropriate qualifications.
- Evidence of relevant public liability insurance (min £5m recommended)
- Any safeguarding, DBS or compliance documentation required for the delivery of services.
- Ability to submit invoices for services delivered.
The successful applicant will be engaged as an independent self-employed contractor and will be responsible for their own tax, National Insurance and other statutory obligations.
Contractors may provide an appropriately qualified substitute to deliver services, subject to prior approval by Reading Students' Union and completion of any required safeguarding and compliance checks.
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to play a leading role in rebuilding a university rugby programme with significant potential. You'll work alongside committed student leaders and talented players while helping shape the culture, identity and success of the club's return season.
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