Football Education & Academy Lead

Stadium MK Group; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

MK Dons Community Trust is seeking a Football Enrichment Lead to drive the Post-16 Football Education and Academy Programme. You will coach, mentor and develop young players aged 16–19 while coordinating fixtures, events and enrichment activities.

You will work closely with the Education Manager to deliver high-quality coaching, safeguarding and inclusive practice, building partnerships with schools and community clubs to grow participation and outcomes.

Qualifications

• UEFA C Licence is essential.
• FA Safeguarding Children Qualification is essential.
• FA Introduction to First Aid in Football (or equivalent) is essential.
• Experience coaching and managing football teams within school, college, grassroots or club environments.
• Experience working with young people aged 16-19 and delivering football within educational settings.
• Experience recruiting participants or growing sports programmes.
• Understanding of player development pathways.
• Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of the Post-16 Football Education and Academy Programme, ensuring a high-quality experience for all participants.
• Plan and deliver engaging football coaching sessions that support player development and educational outcomes.
• Manage academy squads, fixtures, tournaments, enrichment activities and events throughout the academic year.
• Monitor student attendance, progress, engagement and wellbeing, maintaining accurate records and reports.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with students, parents, schools, grassroots clubs and community partners.
• Support the recruitment and retention of students, promoting the programme through presentations, events and outreach activities.
• Ensure all activities are delivered in line with safeguarding, health and safety, equality and diversity, and Trust policies.
• Contribute to the ongoing growth and development of the Education Department and wider Community Trust programmes.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organisational skills

Relationship-building

Safeguarding commitment

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

UEFA C Licence

FA Safeguarding Children Qualification

FA Introduction to First Aid in Football

Full UK Driving Licence

Level 3 Award in Education & Training

Teaching Qualification / QTS

Job description

MK Dons Community Trust is seeking a Football Enrichment Lead to drive the Post-16 Football Education and Academy Programme. You will coach, mentor and develop young players aged 16–19 while coordinating fixtures, events and enrichment activities.

You will work closely with the Education Manager to deliver high-quality coaching, safeguarding and inclusive practice, building partnerships with schools and community clubs to grow participation and outcomes.