Foundation Phase Cell Lead Coach

Cheltenham Town F.C. is seeking an experienced and motivated individual to join our Academy as a Foundation Phase Cell Lead Coach, working with players in the Under 9 – Under 12 age groups, including pre-academy. With Key Responsibilities for Under 11 - Under 12 Cell.

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the technical, tactical and holistic development of players within the Foundation Phase, ensuring delivery of the Club’s coaching curriculum in line with our playing and coaching philosophy.

Key responsibilities include:

• Planning and delivering high-quality training sessions aligned to individual learning plans (ILPs)

• Supporting the development of players across technical, physical, psychological and social areas

• Leading and supporting a team of coaches within the phase

• Delivering a varied and competitive games programme that maximises playing time

• Conducting performance analysis and player reviews

• Working collaboratively with multidisciplinary staff (sports science, medical, psychology, player care)

• Engaging with parents and contributing to player review meetings

• Supporting talent identification, recruitment and player inductions

This is a full-time role requiring flexibility, including evenings, weekends and matchdays, as well as travel to fixtures and events.

We are looking for a passionate and driven coach who is committed to developing young players in a high-performance environment.

Essential Qualifications

• UEFA B Coaching Licence (minimum)

• FA Advanced Youth Award

• FA Safeguarding Children Certificate

• Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAiF)

Desirable

• UEFA A Licence

• Advanced Youth Award (higher level if applicable)

Experience & Knowledge

• Experience in football coaching, youth development or mentoring environments

• Strong understanding of player development and learning (pedagogy)

• Experience designing and delivering development programmes

• Knowledge of sports psychology and holistic player development

• Experience leading or managing staff or teams

Skills & Personal Qualities

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Strong organisational and time management abilities

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Flexible and adaptable approach to work

• High levels of professionalism, integrity and enthusiasm

• Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple responsibilities

• A personable and approachable manner

Additional Requirements

• Full UK driving licence

• Enhanced DBS clearance

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people

Cheltenham Town F.C. is committed to developing players within a professional, inclusive and supportive environment, underpinned by strong values and a clear footballing philosophy.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in line with the Equality Act 2010. We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of background.

The Club adheres to the The Football Association safeguarding standards, ensuring the welfare of children and young people is always a priority. All staff are expected to share this commitment, and safer recruitment practices are applied, including DBS checks where appropriate.

Cheltenham Town F.C. operates in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. Any personal data submitted as part of the recruitment process will be handled securely and used solely for recruitment purposes. Further details can be found in our Privacy Policy on the Club website.

We promote a culture of respect, integrity and professionalism, with a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, harassment, or abuse of any kind.