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

• 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.

• UEFA B Licence
• FA Advanced Youth Award (or willingness to work towards)
• FA Youth Award
• Enhanced DBS check – in date
• Proven experience coaching players within the Youth Development Phase in an academy environment
• Experience supporting transitions from Foundation Phase to Youth Development Phase
• Experience supporting transitions from Youth Development Phase to Professional Development Phase
• Track record of contributing to the development of players progressing into the professional game

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

• High attention to detail and strong analytical approach
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage workload effectively
• Ability to work to tight deadlines
• Strong IT skills, including familiarity with PMA systems
• Ability to work effectively as part of a coaching team
• Ability to travel independently
• Commitment to continuous professional development (CPD)
• Reliable and consistent team performer

All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and Enhanced DBS clearance.

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.