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- Tasks: Lead and develop a competitive swimming programme for all ages.
- Company: Join Abingdon Vale Swimming Club, a friendly and ambitious SwimMark-accredited club.
- Benefits: Enjoy excellent pool facilities and a supportive coaching team.
- Why this job: Inspire young athletes while fostering a positive and inclusive team culture.
- Qualifications: Must have Swim England Level 2 Coaching Award and 5 years of experience.
- Other info: Position is self-employed; salary based on experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Abingdon Vale Swimming Club (AVSC) in Oxfordshire is looking for an inspiring and experienced Head Coach to start as soon as possible. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading and developing a competitive swimming programme. We are a friendly and ambitious SwimMark-accredited club with 180 swimmers from ages 8-26, with a strong Academy and eight competitive squads. Our swimmers compete in club champs and open meets; County, Regional, National and British championships; and a variety of regional leagues and galas, including the West Midlands Premier division of the Arena League and Thames Valley Junior League.
The poolside team comprises 10 regular qualified coaches, including those with expertise in open water and land training. They are supported by an enthusiastic and proactive committee and other club volunteers. We are based primarily at Abingdon School, Oxfordshire, with excellent pool facilities, and the performance squads train regularly at long-course pools further afield. AVSC is committed to safeguarding all our members. The successful candidate will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check and must have or attend the UK Coaching Safeguarding and Protecting Children course.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead and develop a comprehensive training and development programme that aligns with the vision and mission goals of the Club
- Manage all the Club’s coaching delivery, ensuring that coaching is carried out in line with nationally expected practices, within the guidelines authorised by the Committee and maintaining high ethical standards
- Mentor and develop a team of qualified coaches, ensuring that their knowledge, skills and qualifications are kept up to date
- Contribute to the coaching support of swimmers at competitions and during squad training sessions
- Foster a positive, respectful and inclusive team culture
- Ensure compliance with Swim England policies, including Wavepower and Code of Ethics, and the AVSC Code of Conduct
- Engage with the Club committee and membership in setting the direction and performance targets for the Club
- Act as a team leader and role model for all coaches, effectively managing conflicts and differing opinions, and ensuring all coaches have clear objectives and are supported in achieving their professional development goals
- Inspire and motivate swimmers at all levels and ensure that coaching at the Club promotes fitness, enjoyment and enables individuals to perform to the best of their ability
- Evaluate and analyse performance data and competition results to inform training adjustments and strategies
- Oversee the selection and preparation of swimmers for competitions at all levels, identifying individual strengths and areas for improvement
This Job Description sets out the main responsibilities of the role, but it should not be taken as a complete list of responsibilities.
Qualifications and Experience:- Essential - Swim England Swimming Coach Certificate/ASA Level 2 Coaching Award with a minimum of 5 years' experience
- Desirable – Swim England Senior Swimming Coach Certificate / ASA Level 3 Coaching Award
- Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop a coaching team, demonstrated through relevant experience
- Experience in developing swimmers through to County, Regional and National levels
- Safeguarding training and continuing professional development to meet current Swim England requirements
- Experience/qualifications in land-based strength and conditioning would be an advantage
- The ability to lead the development plan and effectively engage with all members of the Club with enthusiasm and ambition
- A passion for motivating and inspiring young athletes to reach their full potential
- A commitment to promote the values of sportsmanship and teamwork
- Responds effectively to changing circumstances and individual athlete needs
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written skills to convey instructions, feedback, and motivation
- Acts with integrity, maintains confidentiality, and represents the Club positively at all times
- Problem-solving ability to handle challenges calmly, including resolving conflicts and adapting training plans as needed
How to apply: Please send your CV with a covering letter outlining your interest in the role and the names and contact details of two professional references via the apply button. All offers of appointment are subject to satisfactory references and enhanced DBS clearance.
Head Coach employer: Swim England
Contact Detail:
Swim England Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Coach
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former coaches at Abingdon Vale Swimming Club or similar organisations. Engaging with them can provide insights into the club's culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your coaching philosophy and how it aligns with the club's vision. Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've developed swimmers in the past, particularly those who have progressed to competitive levels.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with Swim England policies and the AVSC Code of Conduct. Being well-versed in these guidelines will demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding and ethical coaching practices during discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in mentoring other coaches. Highlight any successful strategies you've implemented to enhance their skills and knowledge, as this is a key responsibility of the Head Coach role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Coach
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant coaching experience, particularly in competitive swimming. Include any qualifications such as the Swim England Swimming Coach Certificate or Level 2 Award, and emphasise your ability to lead and develop a coaching team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for swimming and coaching. Discuss how your experience aligns with the club's goals and your vision for developing their competitive programme. Be sure to mention your commitment to safeguarding and promoting a positive team culture.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements in coaching swimmers at various levels. Mention any success in leading teams to competitions and how you have mentored other coaches, showcasing your leadership skills.
Provide Professional References: Include the names and contact details of two professional references who can vouch for your coaching abilities and character. Ensure they are aware they may be contacted and can provide a strong endorsement of your skills and experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swim England
✨Showcase Your Coaching Philosophy
Be prepared to discuss your coaching philosophy and how it aligns with the values of Abingdon Vale Swimming Club. Highlight your approach to developing swimmers and fostering a positive team culture.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head Coach, you'll need to lead a team of coaches. Share examples of how you've successfully mentored and developed coaching staff in the past, and how you handle conflicts within a team.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of scenarios where you've had to adapt training plans or resolve conflicts, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Know the Club's Achievements and Goals
Research Abingdon Vale Swimming Club's recent achievements and future goals. Being knowledgeable about the club will show your genuine interest and help you articulate how you can contribute to their success.
