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Academy and Partnership Coach
Bristol Bears
Bristol Bears are a professional rugby union club based in Bristol, England. They play in Premiership Rugby, England's top division of rugby
Job Posted- 11 May 2026
Status- Full Time
Location- England
Closing date- 21 May 2026
ROLE SUMMARY
To deliver the Bristol Bears vision to ‘Inspire our community through rugby success’ by supporting the development of home-grown players to represent Bristol Bears in the Premiership and Champions Cup. The Academy’s primary objective is to identify and develop the next generation of quality players for Bristol Bears. The appointee will be responsible for supporting the development of academy players to achieve their potential whilst also driving alignment across all areas of the pathway, including our partner, SGS College.
KEY OBJECTIVES
Work as part of an interdisciplinary team to support the short-, medium- and long-term objectives of the Bears Academy Pathway.
Build meaningful relationships with players and staff that help support the development of academy pathway players.
As directed by the Director of Rugby and Head of Academy, lead / assist in the daily design, delivery and review of academy training sessions.
Work as part of the SGS College ACE programme coaching team. Working to support the delivery of a high performing ACE programme to include coaching, mentoring and recruitment.
Contribute positively to the Bears vision and culture.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Working with the SGS College ACE programme on Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s, leading the development of the ACE programme and highlighted academy players within the programme.
Working with the Academy programmes (U16, U17 & U18), delivering as directed by the Head of Academy.
In line with the succession plan, play a key role in the identification and recruitment of academy players.
As directed by the Head of Academy provide coaching support to key partners in the performance pathway. Such support will help drive alignment and performance outcomes for pathway partners.
KEY RELATIONSHIPS
- Director of Rugby
- Head of Academy
- Bristol Bears Senior Coaches
- Bristol Bears Athletic Performance Staff
- Bristol Bears Medical Performance Staff
- Bristol Bears Performance Analysis Staff
- Bristol Bears Partner clubs and schools
- National Age Grade Coaches
- Parents of Bristol Bears Academy Players
- Safeguarding
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Responsible for ensuring all health and safety procedures are followed at all times, with relevant documentation to support
Report all incidents and accidents as required
To complete and review the risk assessments for their department.
ESSENTIAL SKILLS
- Be qualified to a minimum of RFU level 3 coaching award (or working towards) (preferably RFU level 4 or MSc in a related field) or demonstrable experience in a relevant field.
- Have a significant level of experience and achievement in the coaching, supporting and development of young players.
- Detailed tactical and technical knowledge of rugby union
- Effective management skills in a similar or related environment.
- Excellent communication skills to explain and present information clearly for a variety of learning styles.
- Be a team player and well versed in developing constructive working partnerships with a range of stakeholders.
- Be able to demonstrate a strong work ethic, drive and enthusiasm in a similar role.
- Be a confident and proficient user of information technology.
- Be capable of implementing the overall strategy with attention to detail.
- Able to drive the Vision of the Bristol Bears and the purpose of the Academy.
- Full UK driving license.
DESIRABLE SKILLS
- University sports science qualification / related discipline or equivalent.
- Experience and understanding of using Hudl Sports Code software.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
We are committed to the principle of equal opportunity and its policies for recruitment, selection, training, development and promotion are designed to ensure that no employee or potential employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of race, colour, nationality, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, ethnic and national origin, disability or gender reassignment.
SAFEGUARDING
Bristol Rugby Club Limited is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. This role would be subject to an enhanced Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check.
How to Apply
Please click APPLY NOW to begin the application process.