Youth Player Care & Development Lead

AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust; Greater London; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free onsite parking

Season ticket and tickets

Subsidised lunches and snacks

Discounts at club shop

Health plan with Simplyhealth

Employee Assistance Programme

Pension & Life Assurance Scheme

Paid parental leave (five days)

Job summary

AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust is seeking an Academy Player Care Officer to lead the personal development of our U9–U14 players and create opportunities that shape their growth beyond football.

You will work closely with Coaching, Medical, Education, and Psychology teams to deliver a holistic player journey, organise voice meetings, and mentor young talents while prioritising safeguarding and wellbeing throughout the academy.

Qualifications

• Previous experience of working with children.
• Desirable: experience of working with elite young athletes or educational environment.
• Hold or working towards qualifications in education, psychology or social work.
• Mental Health First Aid Certification

Responsibilities

• Build and develop relationships within the U9-U14 players to be part of the player development journey.
• Liaise with Coaching, Performance, Medical, Analysis, Education and Psychology departments to support players.
• Develop and deliver a Player Care & Life Skills programme for U9-U14 players, including workshops and enrichment activities for players and parents.
• Lead and host workshops throughout the season, using internal providers or covering topics that enhance the player journey.
• Organise and facilitate player & parent voice meetings and document outcomes.
• Be present at training or matches across the U9-U14 age groups to provide a contact point for questions and concerns.
• Contribute to internal newsletters and support annual player reviews with staff.
• Use My Concern to record concerns and ensure actions are followed up.
• Support safeguarding across the department and help maintain confidential reports in My Concern.
• Attend safeguarding champion meetings and provide feedback on safeguarding strategy.

Skills

Experience with children

Education

Qualifications in education, psychology or social work

Job description

AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust is seeking an Academy Player Care Officer to lead the personal development of our U9–U14 players and create opportunities that shape their growth beyond football.

You will work closely with Coaching, Medical, Education, and Psychology teams to deliver a holistic player journey, organise voice meetings, and mentor young talents while prioritising safeguarding and wellbeing throughout the academy.