Lead Academy Goalkeeper Coach U9-U16

Blackburn Rovers Football & Athletic Ltd

Organisation: Blackburn Rovers Football & Athletic Ltd
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Location: Blackburn Rovers Academy, Brockhall Village, Old Langho, Blackburn, BB6 8BA. Flexibility regarding location is required.
Contract type: Permanent (Full time)
Closing date: 25 June 2026
Job Description: Job title: Lead Academy Goalkeeper Coach U9-U16

Department: Academy Coaching

Based at: Blackburn Rovers Academy, Brockhall Village, Old Langho, Blackburn, BB6 8BA. However, flexibility regarding location is required.

Reports to: Senior Academy Goalkeeping Coach

Responsible for: N/A

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week plus any additional hours necessary for the performance of duties. This may include evening and weekend work.

Contractual status: Permanent

Job purpose: To lead and deliver the Academy Goalkeeping Programme for Pre Academy to U16 in alignment with the Academy Performance Plan, ensuring a clear development pathway and transition through the phases. The role will support the holistic development of goalkeepers through high-quality coaching, performance analysis, and individual learning plans.

Key responsibilities:
• To be committed to ensuring the safeguarding and welfare of all staff and elite players, promoting their well-being whilst maintaining professional boundaries.
• Deliver the Academy Goalkeeping Curriculum in line with the club’s playing and coaching philosophy for Pre Academy to U16s
• Collaborate with the Senior Academy Goalkeeper Coach to implement and evolve the Goalkeeping Development Programme.
• Plan, deliver, and review individual and group coaching sessions, ensuring alignment with ILPs and phase-specific outcomes.
• Contribute to the multi-disciplinary team (MDT) approach, including performance analysis, sports science, and psychology.
• Maintain accurate records of coaching sessions, player reviews, and development plans using the club’s designated systems.
• Provide regular feedback to players and parents, including formal reviews and reports.
• Support the FP/YDP & PDP training and games programme where necessary.
• Support the recruitment and retention process for goalkeepers across the Foundation and Youth Development Phases.
• Attend and contribute to internal CPD, staff meetings, and external learning opportunities.

Skills required:
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
• High level of planning, organisation, and attention to detail.
• Analytical and reflective approach to coaching and player development.
• Proficient in IT systems including Microsoft Office and performance analysis tools (e.g., Hudl).

Knowledge required:
• In-depth understanding of goalkeeper development across the Foundation and Youth Development Phases.
• Familiarity with the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) and its application within an academy setting.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and welfare best practices.
• Understanding of long-term player development models and talent identification.

Qualifications required:
Essential
• UEFA B Licence (Outfield)
• UEFA B Licence (Goalkeeping)
• FA Youth Modules 1–3
• FA Safeguarding Certificate
• FA Emergency First Aid in Football

DBS Check Required: Yes (Enhanced)
How to apply: Due to high-levels of interest, this post may close early so early application is advised, otherwise the closing date for this role is 5pm on Thursday 25th June 2026. To apply, please submit your application through the EFL I-Recruit platform HERE CV’s will not be accepted.