Assistant Academy GK Coach

Barnsley Football Club; Blackburn; Hybrid; GBP 15,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Blackburn Rovers Academy is seeking an Assistant Academy GK Coach to lead the goalkeeper development programme from Pre Academy to U12, including the advanced training group. The role is based at Blackburn Rovers Academy with some flexibility in location.

Working 20 hours per week with a permanent contract, you will plan and deliver coaching, contribute to ILPs, and collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team. Strong communication, IT, and safeguarding knowledge are essential.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
• High level of planning, organisation, and attention to detail.
• Analytical and reflective approach to coaching and player development.
• Proficient in IT systems including performance analysis tools (Hudl).

Responsibilities

• Lead the Academy Goalkeeping Programme for Pre Academy to U12, including the ATG.
• Deliver the GK curriculum in line with the club’s coaching philosophy.
• Collaborate with Senior Academy Goalkeeper Coach to evolve the Development Programme.
• Plan, deliver and review individual and group sessions with ILPs and outcomes.
• Contribute to MDT approach with performance analysis, sports science and psychology.
• Maintain records of sessions, reviews and development plans.
• Provide regular feedback to players and parents and support CPD.
• Support recruitment and retention of goalkeepers across Foundation Phase.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Planning & Organisation

Analytical approach

IT & Hudl

Tools

Hudl

Job description

Assistant Academy GK Coach (Pre Academy to U12’s)

Department:

Academy Coaching

Based at:

Blackburn Rovers Academy, Brockhall Village, Old Langho, Blackburn, BB6 8BA. However, flexibility regarding location is required.

Reports to:

Senior Academy Goalkeeping Coach/Academy Head of Coaching

Responsible for:

N/A

Hours of work:

20 hours per week plus any additional hours necessary for the performance of duties. This may include evening and weekend work.

Contractual status:

Permanent

1. Job purpose:

To lead and deliver the Academy Goalkeeping Programme for Pre Academy to U12 including the advance training group (ATG) in alignment with the Academy Performance Plan, ensuring a clear development pathway and transition through the phases. The role will support the holistic development of goalkeepers through high-quality coaching, performance analysis, and individual learning plans.

2. Key responsibilities:

• To be committed to ensuring the safeguarding and welfare of all staff and elite players, promoting their well-being whilst maintaining professional boundaries.
• Deliver the Academy Goalkeeping Curriculum in line with the club’s playing and coaching philosophy.
• Collaborate with the Senior Academy Goalkeeper Coach to implement and evolve the Goalkeeping Development Programme.
• Plan, deliver, and review individual and group coaching sessions, ensuring alignment with ILPs and phase-specific outcomes.
• Contribute to the multi-disciplinary team (MDT) approach, including performance analysis, sports science, and psychology.
• Maintain accurate records of coaching sessions, player reviews, and development plans using the club’s designated systems.
• Provide regular feedback to players and parents, including formal reviews and reports.
• Support the YDP/PDP training and games programme where necessary.
• Support the recruitment and retention process for goalkeepers across the Foundation Phase.
• Attend and contribute to internal CPD, staff meetings, and external learning opportunities.
• Ensure safeguarding and welfare standards are upheld at all times.

3. Skills required:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
• High level of planning, organisation, and attention to detail.
• Analytical and reflective approach to coaching and player development.
• Proficient in IT systems including Microsoft Office and performance analysis tools (e.g., Hudl).

About The Candidate

4. Knowledge required:

• In-depth understanding of goalkeeper development across the pre academy and foundation Phase.
• Familiarity with the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) and its application within an academy setting.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and welfare best practices.
• Understanding of long-term player development models and talent identification.