Academy Coach

 Port Vale FC Academy are seeking a committed and enthusiastic Coach to support the delivery of the Academy programme within the Youth Development Phase (YDP) and Foundation Phase (FP). 

The successful candidate will work closely with the Head of Coaching, Lead YDP/FP Coach, and wider Academy staff to plan, deliver, and evaluate coaching sessions, as well as support matchday and training programme delivery.

This is a casual role requiring flexible working, including evening training sessions and weekend availability to support fixtures, meetings, and Academy events

Key Responsibilities:

• In conjunction with the Head of Coaching (HOC) and Lead YDP/FP Coach, oversee and deliver the technical programme for Academy players in the YDP/FP
• Plan and deliver high-quality coaching sessions aligned to individual player development needs
• Devise individual learning objectives and action plans for each player within the YDP/FP
• Monitor player development and record individual player data using the PMA system
• Liaise with the Head of Coaching and Lead YDP/FP Coach to create appropriate session plans for individual learning
• Contribute to the delivery of the Academy Performance Plan
• Support the delivery and management of YDP/FP fixtures, including league, cup, and friendly matches
• Assist in the monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of player performance and development
• Support the supervision and monitoring of physical development within the programme
• Maintain weekly training and performance reports for the Head of Academy / Head of Coaching
• Deliver and support weekly individual and group performance objectives
• Assist in player reviews, including 6-week review cycles and bi-annual written feedback to parents (in conjunction with senior staff and Head of Education)
• Liaise with recruitment staff (Head of Recruitment / AMT) regarding trialist players and talent identification within YDP/FP
• Attend meetings, in-service training, and parent review evenings as required
• Ensure all coaching and activity is delivered in line with safeguarding, health & safety, and Club policies
• Take responsibility for the safety and welfare of all players under your supervision
• Undertake any other duties as required by the Head of Coaching or Lead Phase Coach

This job description is not exhaustive and may vary from time to time without changing the nature of the role.

Safeguarding Statement

Port Vale Football Club is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and adults at risk. All staff are expected to share this commitment and promote a safe environment at all times. Applicants will be asked to declare any previous convictions, cautions, or reprimands, including those considered “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amended 2013).

Health & Safety

Core responsibilities:

Equality Statement

Port Vale Football Club is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the grounds of race, ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, age, pregnancy or maternity.

All staff must conduct themselves in accordance with the Club’s policies and demonstrate a positive commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Employees are expected to treat all internal and external stakeholders with fairness, dignity, and respect, and must not engage in any form of direct or indirect discrimination, victimisation, or harassment of any kind.