Head of Academy Coaching

Reports to

Head of Academy

Responsible for

Academy coaching staff across all age groups

Job Purpose

To lead and manage the delivery and development of the Academy coaching programme in line with Rochdale AFC philosophy and EFL Youth Development Rules, ensuring high-quality coaching standards and player development across all phases.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Lead the implementation and ongoing development of the Academy Coaching Programme.
Implement and review the Club’s Academy Performance Plan, Playing Philosophy and Coaching Philosophy and Curriculum.
Ensure coaching delivery aligns with the Club’s Playing Philosophy and Coaching Philosophy and Curriculum.
Support, mentor and review Academy coaches across all development phases.
Lead and deliver the coaching programme for players within the Professional Development Phase.
Drive a high-performance coaching culture focused on individual player development.
Monitor and maintain high standards of session planning, delivery and review.
Lead coach observation, feedback and Continued Professional Development processes.
Work collaboratively with recruitment, education, sports science and medical departments.
Support the Academy audit process and ensure compliance with EFL Youth Development Rules.
Contribute to Individual Learning Plans and Multi-Disciplinary Reviews.
Ensure Academy Players receive an engaging, challenging and age-appropriate learning experience.
Support player transition pathways into the Professional Development Phase and First Team environment.
Maintain accurate coaching records and departmental reporting.
Represent Rochdale AFC professionally and positively at all times.