Academy Goalkeeping Coach

Port Vale FC Academy are seeking a committed and qualified Goalkeeping Coach to work within the Academy Foundation Phase and Youth Development Phase (U9–U16). The role is focused on delivering an elite goalkeeping development programme aligned to the FA Four Corner Model and the Club’s Academy Performance Plan.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Head of Coaching, Lead Goalkeeping Coach, Phase Coaches, and wider Academy staff to plan, deliver, monitor, and review goalkeeper development in a high-performance environment.

This is a casual role requiring availability for evening training sessions and weekend matchdays, with flexibility to meet the demands of Academy football.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver the technical goalkeeping programme across U9–U16 age groups in conjunction with the Head of Coaching and Lead Goalkeeping Coach
• Plan and deliver individual and group coaching sessions appropriate to player development needs
• Devise individual learning objectives and action plans for each goalkeeper
• Monitor player development and record individual player data on the FIP/PMA system
• Contribute to the Academy Performance Plan delivery
• Produce weekly training reports for the Head of Academy / Head of Coaching
• Deliver and evaluate weekly performance objectives for goalkeepers
• Assist in monitoring and evaluating goalkeeper performance across all phases
• Support the monitoring of physical development in collaboration with relevant staff
• Contribute to a structured 6-week review process for all players
• Provide written bi-annual player feedback reports to parents
• Liaise with Head of Recruitment / Academy Management Team regarding trialist goalkeepers and talent identification
• Attend meetings including in-service training, parent reviews, and performance meetings as required
• Maintain ongoing player observation and reporting systems
• Ensure all coaching 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 directed by the Head of Academy Football, Head of Coaching, or Lead Goalkeeping Coach

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

Essential Qualifications:

• UEFA B Licence
• UEFA B Goalkeeping Licence
• FA Youth Award
• FA Level 2 Emergency First Aid (EFAiF) – in date
• FA Safeguarding Certificate – in date
• Enhanced DBS check – in date

Essential Experience:

• Proven experience coaching goalkeepers within an academy environment
• Experience supporting player transitions across Foundation, Youth Development, and Professional Development phases
• Demonstrable track record of developing players who have progressed into the professional game

Desirable Qualifications/Experience:

• UEFA A Licence
• Experience in coach education
• Experience in scouting and player recruitment

Key Attributes:

• High attention to detail and strong analytical approach
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong organisational and administrative skills
• Ability to prioritise workload and meet tight deadlines
• Strong IT skills, including familiarity with PMA systems
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Ability to travel independently
• Commitment to continuous professional development (CPD)
• Consistent and reliable team performer

All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-engagement checks including references and Enhanced DBS clearance.

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.