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- Tasks: Lead and develop U18 players, ensuring top-notch training and match preparation.
- Company: Join the iconic West Ham United, a club rich in history and community spirit.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, healthcare schemes, and discounted tickets.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young talents and shape future football stars.
- Qualifications: UEFA A Licence required; passion for coaching and player development essential.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Under 18s Head Coach role at West Ham United
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Join to apply for the Under 18s Head Coach role at West Ham United
At the heart and soul of London since 1895 West Ham United is a dynamic, fan-focused football Club constantly moving forward but always with an eye on the past.
Our home at the London Stadium has a capacity of 62,500 making it one of the biggest club Stadia in the country however our tickets are the lowest priced for London based clubs in the Premier League, echoing objectives to create Affordable Family Football.
In 2018, our Women\’s team gained a professional status for the very first time, jumping 2 divisions and competed in the Women\’s Super League (WSL), the premier division of women\’s football in England. After finishing a respectable 7th, the team enjoyed particular success in the FA Cup reaching the final of the competition, eventually being beaten by 2017 winners Manchester City.
In April 2019, we opened our brand-new Academy facility based at Chadwell Heath which will help to bring through some of the very best talents in the area, the recent emergence of First Team Players Declan Rice and Ben Johnson are a testament to the work already being done at the Academy.
On the business side, we are continuing to create a Stadium our supporters can call home, with the renaming of the Billy Bonds Stand and Claret and Blue pitch surrounding amongst the latest developments. Additionally, the Club has achieved the Disability Confident Leader status.
The Club employees a constantly growing workforce of approximately 300 core staff and 500 Foundation and events staff, and is a truly unique place to work. We welcome talented individuals who will thrive in our ambitious organisation.
In October 2023, West Ham United was awarded the Advanced level of the Premier League Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard, recognising the Clubs ongoing dedication and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). It is the second time West Ham United has received the award, which is the top accolade that can be achieved by Premier League clubs, having first been presented with the Advanced level in 2020.
Why Join Us?
Diversity & Inclusion: We believe a diverse team drives creativity and strengthens performance. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and identities to apply.
Health & Wellbeing: We are committed to protecting the physical and mental health of our staff, ensuring a balanced and supportive work environment.
Career Growth: As part of a premier football club, you will have opportunities to grow and innovate in an exciting and fast-paced environment.
Position
Under 18s Head Coach
Location: Chadwell Heath & Rush Green Training Grounds
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Salary: Competitive
Contract Type: Full-Time
Department: Football
Reports to: Head of Coaching and Player Development
Responsible for: Leading the development of U18 players and programme, including phase staff and alignment with U16s and U21s
Essential Qualification: UEFA A Licence
Job Purpose
To lead the coaching and development of players within the U18s squad, ensuring the highest standards of training, match preparation, and player development in alignment with the Academy philosophy. The role is responsible for leading the U18 programme, driving the progression of players towards the U21s and First Team environments, overseeing staff within the phase, and collaborating closely with the multidisciplinary team (MDT) to deliver a holistic development environment both on and off the pitch.
The Academy Vision
To build on our iconic history and create an environment of excellence & high standards that ensures our worldwide reputation as an outstanding producer of talented players & people from within our diverse community all developed The West Ham Way.
Requirements
Key Performance Indicators:
- Lead the consistent delivery of high-quality training sessions and match preparation in line with the Academy Philosophy.
- Ensure holistic development of all U18 players through the IDP process, with regular reviews and measurable progress towards U21s/First Team.
- Demonstrate effective leadership and collaboration with MDT staff to deliver integrated support for players.
- Provide strategic direction and leadership for the U18 phase, ensuring strong alignment with the Academy coaching curriculum.
- Maintain compliance with Premier League and FA regulations, safeguarding standards, and all Club policies.
- Contribute to staff development and foster a learning culture within the phase.
Key Role Accountabilities (Linked to Appraisal)
- Lead the planning, delivery, and review of all training sessions, matches, and tournaments for the U18 squad.
- Oversee and quality-assure IDPs for all U18 players, ensuring individual development objectives are set, monitored, and reviewed effectively.
- Provide clear, consistent feedback to players on performance, ensuring development objectives are communicated and actioned.
- Lead collaboration with MDT staff (sports science, medical, psychology, education, player care) to ensure integrated support and shared accountability for player outcomes.
- Design and deliver individual and small group programmes to meet technical, tactical, physical, and psychological development needs.
- Manage staff within the U18 phase, ensuring alignment with Academy methodology and standards.
- Maintain strong links with U16 and U21 staff to facilitate smooth player transitions between phases.
- Ensure all training, match reports, and player data are accurately recorded on the Performance Management Application (PMA/FIP) within 48 hours.
- Contribute to the wider Academys culture of continuous learning by leading and engaging in CPD sessions, reflection, and innovation.
Standards Responsibilities (Linked to Audit Tool)
Macro / Annual
- Lead retains and release decisions with evidence-based feedback.
- Lead or contribute to Academy projects as directed by the Head of Coaching and Player Development.
- Conduct personal reflection and create an action plan for professional growth.
- Review the overall effectiveness of the U18 programme with the MDT.
Meso / 8-Weekly Blocks
- Complete IDP reviews and update player documents.
- Review team match reports and set development action points.
- Engage in performance reviews with the Head of Coaching and Player Development.
- Maintain close communication with U16 and U21 staff regarding player transitions.
Micro / Weekly
- Plan, deliver, and review all training sessions and matches for the U18s.
- Ensure training equipment and preparation are organised to a high standard.
- Deliver additional development sessions for individuals or small groups as required.
- Model Academy values and professional behaviours daily.
Desired Staff Behaviours The West Ham Way
Togetherness
- I always put the needs of the team and players first.
- I respect everyones contribution and opinion.
- I will represent, share, and celebrate the history and values of West Ham United and its community.
Exciting
- I always aim to promote ambition, creativity, and confidence.
- I invest time into my personal development and try to develop new skills.
- I am open to new ideas and trying things outside my comfort zone.
Hard Working
- I always give 100% all the time.
- I strive to add extra value beyond my job description.
- I encourage and promote a hard-working environment by leading by example.
Attitude+
- I am always respectful, approachable, and display good sportsmanship.
- I leave my ego at the door.
- I always aim to be humble, committed, and reliable.
Respect
- I treat everyone with dignity, fairness, and inclusivity, regardless of role or background.
- I listen actively and value the perspectives of others, even when they differ from my own.
- I uphold the traditions and values of West Ham United with professionalism and integrity in every interaction.
- I take responsibility for my words and actions, ensuring they reflect positively on the club and community.
Safe To Operate Responsibilities
All staff must show a strong commitment to the safety and welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk, regardless of age, gender, language, religion, ethnic background or sexual identity. This includes ensuring the safety and protection of all individuals involved in activities arranged by or in the name of the Club.
All staff must show a strong commitment to the safety and welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk, regardless of age, gender, language, religion, ethnic background or sexual identity. This includes work in line with all health & safety, safeguarding, welfare, and equality policies to ensure a safe environment for all.
- Follow the Clubs Safeguarding reporting procedures to report any allegation or concern regarding abuse or poor practice.
- Report any concerns using the Clubs Child Protection Online Management System (MyConcern) within 24 hours, unless directed otherwise.
- Work in line with all health & safety, safeguarding, welfare, and equality policies to ensure a safe environment for all.
Compliance Responsibilities
- Engage in necessary CPD and obtain all required professional qualifications in line with Premier League and FA regulations.
- Perform duties with due regard to Club policies, procedures, and legislative requirements.
- Ensure all practices are compliant with data protection legislation and GDPR.
- Ensure timely and accurate data entry onto the Football Intelligence Platform (FIP) where relevant.
Safeguarding Commitment
We’re committed to safer recruitment and safeguarding children and adults at risk. This role is subject to enhanced DBS checks and reference verification.
Other Information
Benefits on offer (may vary based on contract type and location)
- 25 days annual leave plus your birthday off
- Pension and life insurance
- Healthcare cash scheme
- Travel season ticket loan
- Cycle to work scheme
- Priority access to apply for match tickets
- Discounted season tickets
- Staff discounts in the club store, café and our official partners products and services
- Discounted gym membership and onsite fitness room facilities
- Family friendly leave policies
- Company Social events
EDI Statement
- The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, aligning with the organisations business and tactical approach to eliminating barriers and addressing inequity. You agree to actively contribute to creating a discrimination-free and inclusive environment, ensuring equitable access to opportunities and benefits, while fostering a culture of dignity and respect that enables everyone to perform and achieve their potential.
- Candidates must demonstrate their capability and willingness to uphold best practices and procedures, promoting lasting positive change while eliminating biases and barriers to attracting, achieving, and supporting talent from all communities, regardless of background, circumstances, or protected characteristics.
Safeguarding
- The successful candidate must demonstrate a commitment to the safety and welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk across all stakeholders. Everyone, including third parties who work with the Club or the West Ham Foundation, is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals. Successful candidates must undergo essential background checks before starting their employment, which may include screening of social media. The type of DBS check required will depend on the responsibilities of the position and may be basic, standard, or enhanced.
- The successful candidate agrees to proactively identify and respond appropriately to any concerns, and follow the Club\’s Safeguarding reporting procedures to report allegations of abuse, poor practice, or anything that may impact the welfare of a child, young person, or adult at risk without delay, within 24 hours, or as otherwise directed by the Clubs or the West Ham Foundation Safeguarding Team.
Applications
To apply, please submit your application via our careers portal: https://www.careers.whufc.com
Deadline: 5pm Wednesday 22nd October 2025
Please note: Due to the high volume of applications expected, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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Under 18s Head Coach employer: West Ham United
Contact Detail:
West Ham United Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Under 18s Head Coach
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the football community. Attend coaching clinics, workshops, or local matches to meet fellow coaches and players. You never know who might have a lead on your dream role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your coaching achievements, training sessions, and player development stories. This will help you stand out when you’re chatting with potential employers or during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to clubs you admire, like West Ham United, and express your interest in coaching roles. A personal touch can go a long way in making a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Utilise our website! Apply through our careers portal for the Under 18s Head Coach position. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Under 18s Head Coach
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your love for football and coaching shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for developing young talent and how you align with our Academy's vision.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the Under 18s Head Coach role. Highlight relevant experience, especially any coaching roles or achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead and develop players.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our careers portal! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at West Ham United.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Ham United
✨Know Your Academy Philosophy
Before the interview, make sure you understand West Ham United's Academy philosophy inside out. Familiarise yourself with their values and how they develop players. This will help you align your coaching style with their expectations and show that you're a perfect fit for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Under 18s Head Coach, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or developed players in the past. Highlight your ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and how you foster a positive learning environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions during the interview. Think about how you would handle specific situations, such as player development challenges or conflicts within the team. Practising these scenarios will help you articulate your thought process and decision-making skills effectively.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
West Ham United values diversity and inclusion highly. Be ready to discuss how you promote these principles in your coaching. Share any experiences where you've created an inclusive environment for players from different backgrounds, showing that you align with the club's commitment to equality.