At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young players' development by overseeing the Host Parent Programme and ensuring their wellbeing.
- Company: Join Sunderland AFC's Player Development Team, dedicated to nurturing young talent.
- Benefits: Part-time role with flexible hours, working in a supportive environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth in a dynamic sports environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young athletes' lives while building strong community relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience with young people, strong communication skills, and a commitment to safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
About the Team
The Player Development Team at SAFC is dedicated to shaping young talent both on and off the pitch. Our core mission is to provide a comprehensive education and development framework that empowers youth players to grow into skilled athletes and responsible individuals.
The Opportunity
Join us as a Part‑Time Academy Accommodation Coordinator and play a crucial role in supporting the development and wellbeing of talented young players. Working 25 hours a week, you’ll oversee the daily operations of our Host Parent Programme, ensuring players live in safe, nurturing, and supportive environments. You’ll build strong relationships with host families, players, and their families, coordinating placements, conducting welfare checks, and providing ongoing support to promote personal and athletic growth. This is an exciting opportunity to be at the heart of player welfare, working closely with the wider team to ensure high standards of care, safeguarding, and compliance. You’ll lead efforts to recruit, train, and develop host parents, organizing meetings and development sessions throughout the season.
What We Ask For
- Experience working with young people, families, or within welfare, safeguarding, education, or player care environments.
- Highly organised, detail‑oriented, and confident in building positive relationships with a range of stakeholders.
- Strong communication skills, the ability to work independently, and effectively manage priorities.
- Good knowledge of Microsoft Office, a full UK driving licence, and willingness to travel for home visits.
- A genuine commitment to safeguarding and the welfare of children and young people.
- Experience in elite sport, football academies, education, or residential care, and a good understanding of Academy Player Care and safeguarding standards.
- Experience in coordinating accommodation or welfare programmes, plus relevant qualifications.
- A compassionate, proactive, and discreet team player who is passionate about creating a positive, supportive environment for our young players and host families.
An Enhanced DBS from Sunderland AFC is required.
Location and Eligibility
This is a full‑time, on‑site role based at the Academy of Light. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK, as we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Academy Accommodation Coordinator employer: Sunderland AFC
At Sunderland AFC, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to the development and wellbeing of young athletes. Our supportive work culture fosters strong relationships among staff, players, and families, while offering opportunities for personal and professional growth within a dynamic team environment. Located at the Academy of Light, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of football, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that prioritises safeguarding and player welfare.
