Lead Youth Development Phase Coach

Join our team

An exciting opportunity has arisen at Portsmouth Football Club.
We are looking for an experienced and inspiring coach to lead our Academy Youth
Development Phase and play a key role in developing our young academy players. If
you’re passionate about player development, committed to high-quality coaching, and
thrive in a collaborative, high-performance environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Purpose of the role

The Lead Academy Youth Development Phase coach is responsible for the overall
coordination, administration, development and coaching within the Youth Development
phase, in line with the Playing and Coaching philosophies, vision and values of the
Academy and the Club.
To work closely with the Academy Manager, Operations Manager, Head of Academy
Coaching and Learning, other phase leads, and other multi-disciplinary staff to ensure that
the needs of all players are fully catered for in the same manner. 

Key Duties & responsibilities

1. Coaching & Match Delivery

• Plan, deliver, and evaluate technical, tactical, psychological, social, and behavioural
coaching programmes in line with the Academy’s coaching philosophy.
• Lead the U15/U16 age group across training, matches, tournaments, and tours
(home and abroad).
• Support, mentor, and develop Academy coaches through observation, feedback,
and CPD opportunities.
• Coordinate with Sports Science, Medical, Recruitment, Education, and other
Academy departments to ensure integrated player support.
• Deliver group, unit, individual, and video-analysis sessions, using performance and
behavioural examples to support development.
• Ensure all coaching activity is accurately recorded on FIP to support the
performance clock of each player.

• Maintain responsibility for player safety, welfare, supervision, and safeguarding at
all Academy activities.
• Provide coaching support to other age groups when required.

2. Player Development & Performance Management

• Create, monitor, and review Individual Development Plans (IDPs) for all players.
• Lead player and parent inductions, meetings, performance reviews, and feedback
sessions in accordance with EPPP requirements.
• Record development outcomes, action plans, and reports on the FIP
• Maintain accurate player registration, compliance documentation, and EFL records,
including Form 30 and CPS updates.
• Work collaboratively with Academy staff to support holistic player development
through a multidisciplinary approach.
• Produce regular reports, player audits, appraisals, and operational updates for
Academy leadership.

3. Safeguarding & Welfare

• Promote a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for all players.
• Identify and report safeguarding concerns in line with Club policies and
procedures.
• Work closely with the Academy Safeguarding Officer to ensure best practice and
compliance.
• Support anti-bullying initiatives and safer working practices throughout the
Academy.

4. Academy & Operational Responsibilities

• Maintain effective communication with the Academy Manager, Head of Coaching,
Operations Manager, and relevant departments.
• Attend staff meetings, Academy fixtures, scouting assignments, and recruitment
activities as required.
• Manage administrative duties, including team sheets, referee reports, equipment,
and kit requirements.
• Stay informed on EPPP regulations, youth development trends, and coaching best
practice.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of coaching programmes and
departmental services.
• Complete all mandatory CPD, FA training, safeguarding, and first-aid requirements.

5. Professional Standards & Club Responsibilities

• Uphold the values, standards, and reputation of Portsmouth Football Club at all
times. 

• Promote equality, diversity, inclusion, and respect throughout the Academy.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety policies and procedures.
• Deliver high standards of professionalism, customer service, teamwork, and
communication.
• Take responsibility for personal development and contribute positively to
employee relations and organisational culture.