Professional Development Phase CoachBristol City

REPORTS TO: Lead PDP Coach
TEAM: Men’s Academy

Club vision:
To play football at the highest level. Bristol City is a widely respected institution within English football, defined by its stability, rich heritage, and a proven track record of elite player development. Looking ahead, we aren’t simply aiming for a place in the top flight; we are committed to being "Premier League Ready" in every sense. This means building the sporting, commercial and operational foundations necessary to compete at the highest level and sustain that status over the long term. When we achieve our goal of playing in the Premier League for the first time, it will be transformative not just for the club, but for the city of Bristol itself.

Job mission:
To support and deliver the coaching programme and provision for all players within the Professional Development Phase (U18 & U21) working closely with the Lead PDP Coach, U21 Lead Coach and Head of Coaching to ensure there is a clear pathway and smooth transition for academy players to the first team.

Key responsibilities:
• Ensure all training sessions are logically planned with clear learning objectives, applicable to each individual and their development targets
• Lead and support with match preparation and in-game management
• Support the design and delivery of Individual Development Plans (IDPs)
• Lead regular player reviews and provide feedback to players and parents (U18) / players only (U21)
• Support Multi-Disciplinary Team “Player Development Meetings”, aligning with EPPP guidelines.
• Contribute to the talent identification process, including assessment of trialists where required.
• Support coaching within other phases where required.
• Support and show an understanding of apprenticeship delivery (SEP)
• Work collaboratively with the Academy MDT.
• Ensure relevant information from sessions and fixtures is fully recorded on the football intelligence platform.
• Ensure coaches within your phase meet delivery standards.
• Responsible for EPPP compliance for age group.
• Ensuring that the Player’s wellbeing & safeguarding is protected at all times.
• Understanding of clubs Equality, Diversity & Inclusion principles
• Maintain relevant CPD as per requirements.
• Complete and maintain your own individual coach development plan in collaboration with the Head of Coach Development.

Experience required:
ESSENTIAL
• UEFA ‘A’ Licence
• FA Advanced Youth Award with age specific specialist element relevant to the Professional Development Phase or National relevant equivalent.
• Experience of developing player transitions from PDP to First Team.
• Understanding of the requirements to play professional football at all levels.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, and lead with own initiative.
• Be empathetic, supporting and encouraging to help develop others.

DESIRABLE
• Experience withing a Professional First Team Environment
• Degree/MA/MSc in a related subject
• Experience in Category 1 Academy