At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop an inclusive, high-quality rugby programme for students.
- Company: Join a prestigious school with a strong commitment to sports and student development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Full-time role with additional responsibilities during evenings and weekends.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young athletes' lives and foster a vibrant rugby culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in coaching rugby and a passion for player development.
The predicted salary is between 28432 - 28432 £ per year.
The Head of School Rugby will lead and develop an inclusive, high-quality rugby programme that increases participation, player development, and performance across the School. They will also oversee the coaching provision, lead the 1st XV and 1st VII, and support staff and students through training, development opportunities, and rugby pathways. The role also aims to strengthen the School’s rugby culture through competitive fixtures, partnerships, and enrichment opportunities that support students both on and off the pitch.
Key Responsibilities- Lead and manage the School’s rugby programme, delivering a progressive, inclusive, and high performance environment.
- Plan and deliver high-quality coaching sessions, oversee teams, and support player development across all ability levels.
- Identify and nurture talent through structured pathways, supporting progression to county, regional, and elite programmes.
- Develop and support staff through mentoring, sharing best practice, and enhancing coaching across curriculum and co-curricular sport.
- Organise fixtures, tournaments, and partnerships with clubs and governing bodies, ensuring strong competitive opportunities.
- Safeguard player welfare through effective monitoring of training load, injuries, and compliance with Rugby Safe standards.
- Contribute to the wider sporting and boarding life of the School, including PE delivery, co-curricular activities, and pastoral responsibilities.
- Any reasonable requests made by their line manager or Senior Leadership Team.
This is a full-time, permanent position, working during term time only. The salary is DYR8.32 (£37,061 FTE), equivalent to £28,432 pro rata per annum, plus an additional £3,901 per annum for boarding duties. The role requires 37 hours per week, with additional evenings and weekends as part of boarding responsibilities.
An application form can be downloaded from the School website. Candidates should complete an application form and supporting statement and submit these by email to the HR Department by Wednesday 10 June 2026. Interviews will take place at The Duke of York’s Royal Military School and candidates will be contacted via email with interview details if they are shortlisted.
Please note that the School reserves the right to close the application deadline earlier than stated, so we encourage candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible. The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our students. You are advised that this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and therefore this post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Please be aware that schools are also required to undertake online recruitment checks on shortlisted candidates under changes to Keeping Children Safe in Education.
Head of School Rugby: Lead Elite Pathways & Performance in Dover employer: The Duke Of York's Royal Military School
The Duke of York’s Royal Military School is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive environment for those passionate about developing young athletes. With a strong focus on professional growth, staff are encouraged to enhance their coaching skills and contribute to a vibrant rugby culture that extends beyond the pitch. Located in a supportive educational setting, this role provides unique opportunities to shape the future of school rugby while fostering meaningful connections within the community.
Contact Details:
The Duke Of York's Royal Military School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of School Rugby: Lead Elite Pathways & Performance in Dover
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the rugby community, whether they’re coaches, players, or even parents. They might have insider info on openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got a coaching session or a training drill that highlights your approach, don’t hesitate to share it. A video or a detailed plan can really make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out to schools and clubs directly, expressing your interest in developing their rugby programmes. You never know what opportunities might arise!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School Rugby: Lead Elite Pathways & Performance in Dover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us:Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand what we're all about at StudySmarter. Check out our values and mission to make sure your application reflects our vibe and goals.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the Head of School Rugby role. Show us how you can lead and develop an inclusive rugby programme that excites players and staff alike.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your supporting statement, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points if needed to make your achievements stand out. We want to see your passion and expertise without wading through too much text!
Submit Early:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We might close the application process earlier than expected, so get your form and supporting statement in as soon as you can. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Duke Of York's Royal Military School
✨Know Your Rugby Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest coaching techniques and player development strategies. Familiarise yourself with the current rugby landscape, including pathways to elite programmes, so you can confidently discuss how you would enhance the School's rugby culture.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or developed coaching staff in the past. Highlight your ability to create an inclusive environment and how you’ve nurtured talent at various levels, as this will resonate with the interviewers.
✨Engage with the School’s Values
Research the School’s ethos and values, especially regarding inclusivity and student welfare. Be ready to discuss how your vision for the rugby programme aligns with these principles, demonstrating that you’re not just a fit for the role but also for the School community.
✨Plan for the Future
Think about innovative ideas you could bring to the role, such as new partnerships or enrichment opportunities. Present a clear plan on how you would develop the rugby programme over time, showing that you’re forward-thinking and committed to long-term success.
