At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a high-performance rugby programme for talented young players.
- Company: The High School of Glasgow, a leading independent school.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunity to shape future athletes.
- Other info: Join a growing rugby programme with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young players' development in a dynamic rugby academy.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-performance rugby and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.
The High School of Glasgow is seeking an ambitious and driven Head of Rugby Academy to lead and develop a high-performance rugby programme within a leading independent school environment. This is a unique opportunity to shape and deliver a modern academy programme, working closely with the Director of Rugby and wider performance staff to support the holistic development of talented young players. The role also includes responsibility for the delivery and growth of the HSOG Warrior Programme, an evening performance programme operating three times per week.
ROLE PURPOSE
The Head of Rugby Academy will provide leadership, coaching, and operational management of the school’s rugby academy. This is a hands‑on role focused on developing players across technical, tactical, physical, and psychological domains, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, safeguarding, and educational values.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Programme Delivery & Coaching
- Lead and deliver all Rugby Academy and HSOG Warrior Programme sessions
- Design and implement high-quality coaching sessions focused on skill development, decision‑making, and game understanding
- Integrate technical, tactical, physical, and psychological development across all age groups
- Player Development
- Create, monitor, and review individual Player Development Plans (PDPs)
- Track and support player progression, workload, and wellbeing in collaboration with the Head of Athletic Development
- Promote high‑performance behaviours including resilience, leadership, and accountability
- Leadership & Operations
- Manage the day‑to‑day running of the Rugby Academy and Warrior Programme
- Oversee planning, scheduling, and internal communication
- Maintain accurate records and provide regular reports to the Director of Rugby
- Contribute to the recruitment and retention of players within the programme
- Collaboration & Pathways
- Work closely with school staff, support services, and performance personnel
- Build and maintain strong links with clubs, regional programmes, and governing bodies
- Support player progression into regional and professional pathways where appropriate
Success Measures
- Player development and progression within school, regional, and performance pathways
- Quality and consistency of programme delivery
- Engagement and retention within the HSOG Warrior Programme
- Positive contribution to the wider rugby programme and school environment
PERSON SPECIFICATION – ESSENTIAL
- Experience within academy, professional, or high‑performance rugby environments
- Strong understanding of youth development and long‑term athlete development principles
- UKCC Level 3 (or equivalent coaching qualification)
- Excellent communication, organisational, and leadership skills
- Ability to work effectively within a school environment
PERSON SPECIFICATION – DESIRABLE
- Experience within an independent school or structured youth pathway
- Professional or semi‑professional playing/coaching background
- Experience working within a multidisciplinary performance team
- Evidence of developing players to representative or professional levels
WHY JOIN US?
- Opportunity to lead and shape a high‑performance rugby academy
- Work within a well‑resourced and ambitious school environment
- Play a key role in developing players within a recognised performance pathway
- Be part of an exciting and growing rugby programme with strong external links
SAFEGUARDING
The High School of Glasgow is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post is subject to enhanced safeguarding checks, and the successful candidate will be expected to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct at all times.
HOW TO APPLY
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to vacancies@hsog.co.uk. Interviews will take place in June 2026. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Fin Gillies, Director of Rugby – fjg@hsog.co.uk.
Head of Rugby Academy in Glasgow employer: Scottish Council of Independent Schools
Contact Detail:
Scottish Council of Independent Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Rugby Academy in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the rugby community and let them know you're on the hunt for a Head of Rugby Academy role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local rugby events or coaching clinics. This not only boosts your visibility but also shows your commitment to player development and community engagement. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential employers face-to-face!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you find a position that excites you, reach out directly to the hiring manager or the Director of Rugby. A quick email expressing your enthusiasm can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to showcase your coaching philosophy and player development strategies in conversations. Be ready to discuss how you would lead the Rugby Academy and contribute to the HSOG Warrior Programme. We want to see your vision come to life!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Rugby Academy in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your experience in high-performance rugby environments and how it aligns with our vision for the Rugby Academy. Keep it engaging and personal, showing us why you're the perfect fit.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to reflect your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. Focus on your coaching qualifications and any leadership roles you've held in rugby or sports development.
Showcase Your Player Development Skills: We want to see how you’ve contributed to player development in the past. Include specific examples of how you've created and monitored Player Development Plans (PDPs) and supported players' progression. This will show us your hands-on approach!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Council of Independent Schools
✨Know Your Rugby Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest coaching techniques and player development strategies. Brush up on your knowledge of youth development principles and be ready to discuss how you would implement them in the academy.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or programmes in the past. Highlight your communication and organisational skills, as these will be crucial for managing the day-to-day operations of the Rugby Academy.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Player Development
Be ready to talk about your approach to creating and monitoring Player Development Plans. Share specific instances where you’ve helped players progress, focusing on their technical, tactical, and psychological growth.
✨Engage with the School Environment
Familiarise yourself with the ethos of The High School of Glasgow and be prepared to discuss how you would fit into their culture. Show that you understand the importance of collaboration with school staff and external clubs to support player pathways.