Location: St Mary’s Stadium, Southampton
Hours: Full Time, based on delivery schedule, to include evenings and weekends
Contract Type: Permanent
Criminal Record Check: DBS Enhanced with Child’s Barred List
What is the role?
We are seeking a Football & Sports Development Coach to support in delivering high-quality coaching programmes within the UK and International Football Programmes department. Striving to engage, develop and create an enjoyable learning environment for players and ensure “best-in-class” delivery.
What will you be doing?
As a Southampton Football Club coach, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality football coaching as part of our UK & International Football Programmes. Using the renowned principles of The Southampton Way, you will inspire young players and contribute to their technical and personal development.
This will be brought to life by delivering across the below programmes;
Player Development Programme – Deliver coaching sessions for our invitation-only programme, supporting players in their progression within the Southampton FC pathway, across mid week evenings.
Grassroots support – Provide coaching and development support for grassroots teams and players at our Skills Centres, held on weekends and evenings.
Soccer Schools – Deliver engaging football experiences to thousands of players during school holidays, both in Hampshire and the Channel Islands. This includes our open access Soccer Schools or within our Player Development Camps to provide an academy experience for aspiring players.
School football – Lead football sessions during term time, either within school curriculum hours or as part of after-school programmes, introducing children to the principles of The Southampton Way to thousands of children.
There will be further opportunities of delivery both in the UK & internationally throughout the season, as well as assisting with some of our large footballing Southampton FC events. On the day-to-day, you will increase and retain high levels of players, whilst ensuring the experience is Best In Class for partners, parents/guardians and players. There will be the need to complete individual development plans and player reports, and you will also support players through the Southampton FC player progression pathway and ensure they are recommended through the correct process to the Player Development Programme and Academy programmes.
Is this you?
You create and coach a learning environment for players that aligns to our Southampton Way, and the curriculums and frameworks instilled within our methodologies. You’re organised, planned and enthusiastic to deliver high quality coaching provision for players.
You have previous experience working with a variety of age groups particularly across the foundation phase, and have excellent communication skills; liaising with parents, coaches, teachers and players in a professional and polite manner. You have a positive attitude and a confident personality who thrives when overcoming challenges.
Essential Qualifications and Experience
Experience leading & delivering to large football centres, camps and managing other coaches on site.
Experience of working with a variety of age groups.
To have excellent knowledge of both school sports and youth football.
Minimum UEFA ‘C’ License/ FA Level 2
In date and valid FA First Aid and FA Safeguarding certifications
Desirable Qualifications and Experience
UKCC Level 1/2 Coaching qualification or equivalent in a variety of sports.
Hold degree in relevant subject or min of 3 years industry experience.
afPE 1st4sport Level 3 Certificate in Physical Education and School Sport.
To have managed football teams, at both children and youth level.
To have worked in an elite player centre.
How this benefits you…
If you are successful, you can look forward to a healthy benefits package;
Access to 2 free match tickets for every home league game.
Access to our staff Health & Wellbeing initiatives (Mental & Physical Health).
Discounted Southampton Football Club merchandise.
25 days’ holiday per year excluding bank holidays plus your birthday off each year.
Contributory Pension Scheme.
Worldwide Travel Insurance for you and your family.
Learning & Development opportunities - supporting you to develop your potential and achieve in your career.
Free onsite parking.
Cycle to Work Scheme.
Collaborative & inclusive working culture.
How can I apply?
Just click on the apply button, enter your details and answer a quick pre-screening questionnaire, then attach your CV.
The closing date for this role is 12 January 2026.
*We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if a high volume of applicants are received. *
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and we expect everyone to share this commitment. You will be required to adhere to all relevant policies and uphold the Club’s commitment to safeguarding children, young people and adults at risk and to ensure that Southampton Football Club is free from discrimination and harassment.
The post holder will demonstrate a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, supporting the organisation’s strategic aims to remove barriers and address inequality. You will play an active role in promoting an inclusive, discrimination-free environment that ensures fair access to opportunities and resources. This includes fostering a culture of dignity, respect, and belonging where everyone is empowered to contribute, perform, and reach their full potential.