At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop U13 to U16 teams, ensuring player progression and alignment with Club philosophy.
- Company: Stoke City Football Club, a prestigious Academy in the English Football League.
- Benefits: Full-time role with training provided, plus opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible hours required, including evenings and weekends for match days.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young players' development and contribute to the success of our Academy.
- Qualifications: UEFA A Licence or equivalent, strong leadership skills, and a passion for youth development.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Stoke City Football Club of the English Football League are looking for a Lead Youth Development Phase Coach.
The role will be based at our Category One status Academy at Clayton Wood Training Ground.
As the Lead Youth Development Phase Coach, you will oversee the U13 to U16 teams, whilst leading on the U16s coaching, providing all players with the best programme and opportunity to progress through the Youth Development Phase.
You will be responsible for player development and supporting the progression of players within the phase, ensuring all coaching activities align with the Club philosophy.
This is an exciting opportunity to influence the development of our young players and contribute to the success of our Academy.
The ideal candidate will be available to work evenings and weekends to cover match day fixtures and other ad hoc events at the bet365 Stadium.
The position will be offered on a full time basis. All relevant training will be provided.
- Main Responsibilities
- Planning and delivering weekly coaching programmes in line with the Club's philosophy and games programme.
- Managing and evaluating daily coaching activities, ensuring players work towards targets in their Player Development Plans.
- Tracking and monitoring player development, ensuring all cycle reviews are completed and communicated to players, parents and staff.
- Identifying and recommending potential players for transition within the Youth Development Phase and to the Professional Development Phase.
- Liaising with the recruitment department and Academy Director to carry out scouting and player recruitment.
- Building effective relationships across the Academy and wider Club to support the Multi-Disciplinary Team.
- Educating staff to ensure the maintenance of best practice, including the monitoring of training sessions and provision of in-service training.
- Participating in the Club's in-house CPD and attending national and regional meetings as required.
- Ensuring compliance with Club policies, including health and safety, safeguarding and betting integrity rules.
- Key Skills and Experience
- UEFA A Licence coaching qualification or equivalent.
- FA Advanced Youth Award (AYA).
- Strong understanding of the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) guidelines and their application within an Academy setting.
- Strong understanding of the Youth Development Phase and player progression.
- Strong leadership and motivational abilities, with a proven track record of developing talent.
- Deep understanding of player development principles and modern coaching methodologies.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively within a Multi-Disciplinary Team.
- Exceptional organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
- Ability to analyse player performance critically and provide constructive and effective feedback.
- Proactive and adaptable approach to problem solving, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
This organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Background checks and DBS checks at the appropriate level will be obtained prior to employment commencing.
Closing date for applications is Monday 17th August 2026.
Stoke City Football Club endorses the principle of Equality and will strive to ensure that everyone who wishes to be involved in the Club will be treated fairly and with respect, regardless of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion and belief, sex or sexual orientation.
By applying to us you are agreeing to share your Personal Data in accordance with our Recruitment Privacy Policy which can be found at
The Club is committed to providing access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in without threat of intimidation, victimisation, harassment, bullying and abuse.
Any person associated with the Club can be assured of an environment in which their rights, dignity and individual worth are respected and in particular, that they are able to enjoy their engagement at the Club.
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Lead Youth Development Phase Coach employer: Stoke City Football Club
Stoke City Football Club is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture where teamwork and commitment are highly valued. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and the opportunity to contribute to the club's operations, all while enjoying the unique atmosphere of working in a renowned sports environment. With flexible evening and weekend shifts, this role provides a rewarding experience for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Youth Development Phase Coach
✨Get Involved in Local Sports Communities
Dive into your local sports scene! Attend community games, coaching sessions, and meet-ups. Building relationships with coaches and team managers can help you uncover job opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Leverage Internships and Volunteering
Even though you’re after a full-time role, don’t underestimate internships or volunteering in sports organisations. These positions not only give you hands-on experience but can also lead to permanent openings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make your face known in the industry!
✨Visit Sports Job Fairs
Keep an eye out for sports job fairs and career expos specific to the recreation management field. These events are goldmines for meeting hiring managers from organisations like Stoke City Football Club. Bring your A-game and be ready to chat about how you can contribute to their team!
✨Apply Through Our Website
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We think you need these skills to ace Lead Youth Development Phase Coach
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 Stoke City Football Club 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 Stoke City Football Club
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sports
When chatting with Stoke City Football Club, 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.
