At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver top-notch therapy services and lead injury prevention for a women's rugby squad.
- Company: Welsh Rugby Union, dedicated to player welfare and clinical excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, life assurance, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on female athletes' health and performance in rugby.
- Qualifications: BSc in Physiotherapy or related field with elite sports team experience.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 37000 £ per year.
As part of our ambition to return Welsh Rugby to the top of the international game, player welfare and clinical excellence sit at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to building a women's performance pathway that supports every athlete to develop, stay available, and perform — and that starts with outstanding medical and therapy provision at every level of the programme. The Celtic Challenge is a critical part of our women's performance pathway, and this role is central to it.
As Lead Therapist, you will deliver high‑quality clinical care to a Celtic Challenge women's squad, lead screening and injury prevention programmes, and play an active role in shaping an evidence‑informed, female‑focused approach to player welfare across the organisation.
Position Details
- Closing Date: 12 June 2026
- Salary: £31,000 – £37,000 per annum, depending on experience
- Location: WRU National Centre of Excellence, Hensol
- Status: Full time, permanent
- Positions available: 2
Responsibilities
- Deliver therapy services to a Celtic Challenge women's squad across all training and fixtures.
- Lead pre‑and post‑campaign screening programmes, including MSK, cardiac, and cognitive baseline assessment.
- Design and implement female‑specific injury prevention programmes and player wellbeing education.
- Ensure full clinical governance, including concussion protocols, medical records, and World Rugby compliance.
- Contribute to applied research and support the wider Women’s International Pathway as required.
Qualifications
- BSc in Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, or Sports Rehabilitation, with current CSP/HCPC, BASRaT, or SST membership.
- Current pitch‑side qualifications meeting WRU Minimum Standards Criteria.
- Proven experience as the lead clinician for an elite sports team.
- Deep understanding of clinical governance, confidentiality, and GDPR within a performance sport environment.
- Commitment to evidence‑informed practice and female athlete health.
Requirements
- Proficiency with IT skills, specifically Microsoft packages.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Desirable ability to communicate through the medium of Welsh and a valid UK Driver’s Licence.
- Basic DBS check required.
Perks
- Salary Sacrifice Pension (5% employee contribution, matched by WRU).
- Life assurance scheme.
- WRU Group Ticket Allocation (in line with ticketing policy).
- One additional paid day off (birthday leave).
- Employee assistance programme.
- Team Tactics – hybrid working arrangements.
- Free stadium parking and gym.
- WRU Group store and tour discounts.
- WRU Group partnership offers.
- Eye Care Voucher Scheme.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
Celtic Challenge - Lead Therapist in Pontyclun employer: WRU - Welsh Rugby Union
At the WRU National Centre of Excellence in Hensol, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to player welfare and clinical excellence. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through continuous learning opportunities, while our comprehensive benefits package, including a salary sacrifice pension and additional paid leave, ensures that our employees feel valued and motivated to contribute to the success of Welsh Rugby.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Celtic Challenge - Lead Therapist in Pontyclun
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at WRU - Welsh Rugby Union. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like WRU - Welsh Rugby Union.
We think you need these skills to ace Celtic Challenge - Lead Therapist in Pontyclun
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for WRU - Welsh Rugby Union:Take some time to research WRU - Welsh Rugby Union and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at WRU - Welsh Rugby Union
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for WRU - Welsh Rugby Union's values and approach.
