Youth Head Coach

Purpose of Role

The Youth Head Coach is responsible for leading and developing coaching across the youth section at Locks Heath Pumas. Rather than coaching a single team, this role supports, mentors and develops the club's coaches to ensure every player receives a safe, enjoyable and high-quality rugby experience.

Working closely with the Club Committee, Team Managers and coaching teams, the Youth Head Coach helps embed the RFU's Age Grade Rugby principles, promotes best practice and ensures a consistent coaching philosophy across all youth age groups. The role plays a key part in creating a positive coaching culture where coaches feel supported, confident and able to develop alongside their players.

Time Commitment

This is a flexible volunteer role throughout the rugby season.

The Youth Head Coach will regularly attend training sessions and occasional match days across different age groups to observe coaching, provide support and offer feedback. The role also includes attending coaches' meetings, supporting coach development and planning, and undertaking occasional administrative tasks.

Main Responsibilities

Lead the Club's Coaching Programme

• Provide leadership and direction for coaching across the youth section.
• Promote a consistent coaching philosophy in line with the RFU Age Grade Rugby framework and the values of Locks Heath Pumas.
• Encourage coaching that prioritises player enjoyment, development, inclusion and welfare.
• Work with the Club Committee to continually review and improve the club's coaching programme.

Develop and Support Coaches

• Mentor and support coaches of all experience levels, helping them build confidence and develop their coaching skills.
• Observe coaching sessions and provide constructive feedback and guidance.
• Share coaching ideas, resources and best practice.
• Help new coaches settle into their roles and understand the club's coaching expectations.
• Encourage coaches to complete appropriate RFU qualifications and continuing professional development opportunities.
• Foster a supportive coaching environment where coaches feel comfortable sharing ideas and learning from one another.

Maintain Coaching Standards

• Help ensure coaching sessions are safe, engaging and appropriate for each age group.
• Promote the RFU Core Values of Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship.
• Ensure coaches understand and follow club policies relating to safeguarding, player welfare and codes of conduct.
• Support coaches in adapting sessions to meet the needs of players with different abilities and backgrounds.
• Identify areas where additional support or training may be beneficial.

Work with the Wider Club

• Build positive relationships with coaches, Team Managers, parents and committee members.
• Support recruitment and retention of volunteer coaches.
• Assist in planning coach meetings, workshops and development opportunities.
• Help ensure good communication between coaching teams across the youth section.
• Provide advice to the Club Committee on coaching matters and player development

Skills

We're looking for someone who is passionate about developing people just as much as developing rugby players. You should enjoy supporting others, sharing knowledge and helping coaches grow in confidence.

Ideally you will have:

• Experience of coaching rugby, preferably within youth rugby.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills.
• The ability to inspire, motivate and develop volunteer coaches.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A collaborative and supportive approach.
• Good organisational and planning skills.
• A sound understanding of the RFU Age Grade Rugby programme and player-centred coaching.
• A commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and player welfare.
• An RFU coaching qualification appropriate to the role (or willingness to work towards one).
• Current RFU DBS clearance, safeguarding training and first aid qualification, or willingness to complete these.