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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire swimmers of all ages to achieve their personal bests.
- Company: Join a vibrant swimming club focused on growth and community engagement.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in athletes' lives while fostering a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in coaching and mentoring, with strong communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on safeguarding and inclusive practices.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
We’re building a joyful, high‑performance environment where swimmers of all ages progress confidently—from post Learn to Swim through performance squads and Masters—while feeling supported, safe, and inspired. As Head Coach, you’ll set the vision, lead the coaching team, and turn potential into personal bests. This role will also provide an opportunity to liaise with and learn from University of Stirling / National Centre performance coaches.
The opportunity (at a glance)
- Lead the programme: Own the seasonal plan and daily coaching standards across all squads
- Develop people: Grow and mentor assistant/coaches; build a positive, learning‑led culture
- Win well: Prepare athletes and teams to compete confidently at the right meets, peaking at the right time
- Strengthen the club: Partner with the Committee, parents, pool partners, and the local community to help the club thrive
- Keep everyone safe: Champion safeguarding, welfare, and inclusive practice every session
What You’ll Lead
- Programme & Performance: Design and deliver an integrated, evidence‑based training programme (macro/meso/micro cycles) that develops technically excellent, physically robust, and psychologically confident athletes across the pathway. Plan the meet calendar, selection criteria, taper strategies, and competition logistics to maximise PB rates and championship qualification.
- Coaching Team Leadership: Set clear coaching standards, run regular coach huddles, and lead in‑house training and mentorship so every coach grows in confidence and capability. Create individual development plans and encourage attendance at relevant National Governing Body development opportunities.
- Club Development & Operations: Review and refine squad structures, criteria, and progression pathways to ensure fairness, clarity, and headroom for growth. Coordinate coaching cover, across training and competitions; work effectively with volunteer Team Managers to ensure safe, smooth meet delivery. Partner with the Club Committee on strategy, budgeting inputs, facilities relationships, and community engagement.
- Safeguarding, Welfare & Governance: Model and ensure best practice in safeguarding and welfare, equality, diversity & inclusion, and athlete‑centred coaching at all times. Operate in line with Scottish Swimming governance documentation, the Club Constitution, Codes of Practice, and District rules.
What Success Looks Like
- First 90 days: A clear training philosophy and seasonal plan communicated to swimmers, parents, and coaches. Agreed squad criteria and meet calendar; baseline testing and attendance routines in place. Coaching team 1:1s completed, development plans agreed, and a simple quality‑assurance rhythm launched (session plans, deck feedback, video review).
- By 12 months: ≥85–90% average training attendance in performance squads; improved retention across development squads. High PB conversion at target meets; uplift in district/ national qualifiers appropriate to club size. Positive welfare audit results; high parent/athlete satisfaction (survey) and strong volunteer engagement. A confident pipeline of developing coaches ready to step up.
Must‑have Skills, experience & qualities
- Proven track record planning and delivering age‑group and youth programmes that progress athletes appropriately across the pathway.
- Experience leading/mentoring coaches and coordinating competition programmes.
- Strong communication with athletes and parents; calm, organised, and values‑led.
- Current Safeguarding training (e.g., CWPS), Emergency First Aid; willingness to keep CPD current.
- PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) membership (or willing to obtain) prior to start.
Nice‑to‑have
- Experience collaborating with schools, learn‑to‑swim providers, and performance centres.
- NPLQ or teacher/coach rescue qualification; technical skills in video analysis and athlete monitoring.
Time, place & pay
- Location: Stirling University (Primary), The Peak Stirling, Wallace and Stirling High Schools.
- Schedule: 4–5 evenings/2-3 Mornings + meets; planning/admin time.
- Commitment/Contract: Self‑employed.
- Compensation: Competitive.
Reporting & support
- Reports to: Club Chair/Committee.
- Direct reports: Development Lead Coach /Coaches; coordination with Team Managers and Welfare Officer.
- Key partners: Scottish Swimming; Active Stirling; Club Committee.
Head Coach in Stirling employer: Scottish Swimming
Contact Detail:
Scottish Swimming Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Coach in Stirling
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow coaches, athletes, and even parents in the swimming community. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t always advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your coaching philosophy! Create a personal coaching portfolio that highlights your training plans, success stories, and any innovative techniques you’ve implemented. This will help you stand out when meeting potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Get involved in local competitions! Volunteering as a coach or mentor at meets not only boosts your visibility but also allows you to demonstrate your skills in real-time. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with the community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate coaches who can lead and inspire. Your next big opportunity could be just a click away!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Coach in Stirling
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for coaching and developing swimmers! Share your experiences and what drives you to create a positive environment for athletes of all ages.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills align with our vision. We want to know how you can contribute to our high-performance culture and support our swimmers' journeys.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your coaching philosophy, experience, and how you plan to lead our coaching team effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Swimming
✨Know Your Coaching Philosophy
Before the interview, take some time to clearly define your coaching philosophy. Be ready to discuss how it aligns with the club's vision of creating a joyful and high-performance environment. This will show that you’re not just a coach, but a leader who can inspire both athletes and fellow coaches.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations, such as developing a struggling athlete or managing a conflict within the coaching team. Think of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to foster a positive learning culture.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Head Coach, strong communication is key. Be prepared to discuss how you engage with athletes, parents, and the coaching team. Highlight any strategies you've used to ensure everyone feels included and informed, which is crucial for building trust and a supportive environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Since safeguarding is a top priority, be ready to talk about your current training and any relevant experiences. Discuss how you’ve implemented best practices in previous roles to ensure the safety and well-being of all athletes, showing that you take this responsibility seriously.
