AddressJob Title: U15-U16 Head Coach &Upper Youth Development Phase Lead
Department: Academy
Reporting: Head of Academy Football Development
Location: Training Ground - Jersey Road
Salary: Competitive
Closing date: Friday 8 March 2024
Brentford FC is a bit different to other Premier League football clubs. We put our fans first, we are a true community club and while we are financially sustainable, we are not afraid to take calculated risks. We take huge pride in our environment and culture within the Club which focuses on development, inclusion and not being afraid to think differently.
Being progressive, humble and respectful while sticking together as one team across the Club guides how we work and the decisions we make each day.
We also firmly believe that a diverse workforce is a better workforce which will help us develop ideas, solve problems and ultimately grow Brentford FC.
We play in a brand-new stadium, 15 minutes from Heathrow in vibrant west London.
We will never forget where we have come from, but we are excited about the future that lies ahead.
Come join us.
Inclusion Statement
Brentford FC is an organisation which values and is passionate about diversity and inclusivity. Whilst our recruitment decisions are always based on merit and suitability, we welcome and encourage applications from qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups – such as those from ethnically diverse backgrounds, women, those from the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
Safeguarding Statement
Brentford FC is committed to equality, the safeguarding and welfare of all children and adults at risk. This responsibility is shared by all staff and volunteers at the club, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Staff will be required to undertake regular safeguarding training to enable and reinforce a proactive approach to safeguarding. This role requires the post holder to apply all relevant policies and uphold the club’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable people to ensure a safe environment for all. This includes the timely reporting of any safeguarding concern to the safeguarding team.
At Brentford FC we want everyone to feel valued and included. Therefore, we will do what we can to support applicants with disabilities and long-term health conditions as part of our application process. If you require any adjustments or support, please contact us on vnowak@brentfordfc.com and we will do our best to accommodate your requirements in line with the Equality Act 2010.
Please note that where appropriate for the role, you may be required to complete additional background checks such as Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and this will include any time living or working outside of the UK in the last 10 years. You can find out more about this at https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record
Please also note that a CV application will not be sufficient. Applications will not be considered where the application form has not been completed in full.
The Role of U15-U16 Head Coach &Upper Youth Development Phase Lead
The successful candidate will lead the coaching for the U15 & 16 combined group, to enable the team to achieve maximum development both individually and collectively. Although your main priority is to lead the coaching for the required age group it is important that the team plays in the Brentford FC style, and it is also essential that you work to the developmental needs of the individuals. You are also required develop the knowledge of the assistant coach and become part of a coaching department that looks to share knowledge for the benefit of each other. You may also be required to work with other Academy age groups as and when required.
Main Accountabilities U15-U16 Head Coach
To lead the U15/ U16s, to motivate and develop the individual players to enable them to win games whilst working within the Club’s coaching philosophy and style of play framework.
Form positive relationships with players and motivate them towards achieving their potential, ensuring their well-being and holistic development.
To have the ability to identify individual strengths and unacceptable weaknesses with the ability to apply appropriate coaching, and tactical development tailored to the individual player.
To work with the Assistant Coach to implement individual development plans for your designated age group squad, whilst having an age specific understanding of technical, tactical, physical, psychological development and identifying age-appropriate teaching.
Provide feedback to players both formally through the Performance Management Application (PMA), individual meetings, IDP reviews, whilst also fully integrating key stakeholders into the process.
To understand and produce key programs to enable individual players to successfully transition from the age group to age group in line with the Club’s footballing philosophy.
To lead the retain and release process within the MDT or part of the phase.
To ensure the cohesion, conflict resolution and management of the individual players to ensure high quality professional standards and a positive team ethic are maintained at all times.
Ensure any contact and interaction with players complies with the Club’s Safeguarding Policy and that any concerns are shared with the Safeguarding Team through appropriate channels.
To work cooperatively with all academy staff and to maintain relationships with the players and their key stakeholders.
To develop and maintain effective parent relationships to enhance the player’s development.
To liaise with the scouting and recruitment department for the selection of players.
To work in line with the strategy of EPPP as agreed by the Club.
To lead the inter disciplinary team (IDT) to provide a holistic development plan for the individual players.
To complete all club administrative duties in line with EPPP audit requirements.
Attend all relevant coaching CPD events both internally and external at the request of the Head of Football Development.
Help to ensure the Academy is continually achieving the standards required to retain its category status within the EPPP guidelines.
Any other relevant tasks and duties as directed by senior Academy or Football Department management.
Main Accountabilities Upper Youth Development Phase Lead
- To work as part of a coaching leadership group to undertake periodical reviews of the football programme for U8 – U21 ages to ensure it delivers to the objectives of the Academy as set by the Academy Director.
- Work with the Coaching Leadership Group to ensure the academy football programme is aligned and delivers the technical position specific skills required for players at Brentford FC.
- Work closely with the Head of Football Development to ensure a smooth transition for boys as they move through the academy age groups.
- To Mentor selected coach / es within the upper YDP age groups to ensure they deliver the academy football coaching programme in line with the Brentford FC’s specific methodology, playing style and objectives.
- Provide input into the decision-making processes for recruitment, retain, release and scholarship offers across the entire pathway.
- To represent the coaching department at relevant meetings, events, working groups and external stakeholders.
General Club Accountabilities
- To ensure compliance with all relevant Club policies, including safeguarding, health and safety policies and with specific reference to the data regulations.
- To ensure compliance with the Club’s Code of Conduct.
- To ensure compliance with all relevant legal, regulatory, ethical and social requirements.
- To build and maintain good working relationships both internally and externally, maintaining a professional image at all times when representing Brentford FC.
- Be considerate of players’ welfare at all times.
- To keep confidential any information gained regarding the Club and its personnel.
- To maintain a flexible approach to work at all times.
Key Internal Relationships
Head of Football Development
Academy Management Team
Recruitment and U18 / B team coaching staff
Academy Coaching Staff
Medical and Performance Staff
Player Welfare and Safeguarding Staff
Person Specification - Essential Personal Characteristics
UEFA ‘A’ License Coaching Certificate
FA Advanced Youth Award
FA Learning Safeguarding Children Certificate
FA Emergency Aid In Football Certificate
FA Youth award
FA Safeguarding certificate
EFAiF certificate
Basic level of IT skills
Person Specification - Desirable Characteristics
UEFA Pro License
Premier League ECAS qualification
Previous experience of working with young players
Previous experience of leading a YDP / PDP age groups within a professional Academy
