The Edinburgh Academy is seeking to appoint a Director of Netball to play a leading role in the continued development of our ambitious Netball programme. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and forward-thinking practitioner.
Working closely with the Director of Sport, the successful candidate will drive standards, enhance player development, and ensure a clearly defined pathway from Junior School through to Senior School and beyond. The role will suit a coach who combines technical expertise with a passion for long-term athlete development in an independent school context.
Main Responsibilities:
1. Strategic Leadership & Programme Development
* Lead the strategic vision for netball across the school, ensuring alignment with the wider sports programme and school ethos
* Build upon and evolve the existing performance pathway, maintaining continuity while introducing innovative practices
* Set clear performance objectives for all teams, with particular emphasis on senior and elite squads
* Establish and maintain strong links with regional and national netball pathways, clubs, and governing bodies
2. Administration & Communication
* Manage budgets, resources, and equipment effectively
* Maintain clear communication with students, staff, parents, and external partners
* Keep accurate records of player development, fixtures, and results
* Promote netball success through school communications and marketing channels
3.Student Experience & Participation
* Promote a culture of enthusiasm, commitment, and sporting values within netball
* Ensure inclusive opportunities for participation while maintaining elite standards at the top end
* Support the holistic development of student-athletes, balancing performance with wellbeing and academic commitments
4. Coaching & Staff Development
* Lead, mentor, and manage the netball coaching team, including assistant coaches and external specialists
* Ensure consistent, high-quality coaching delivery across all age groups
* Provide professional development opportunities for staff and foster a culture of continuous improvement
* Model best practice in coaching, leadership, and athlete welfare
5. Fixtures, Competitions & Events
* Oversee a fixture programme that ensures participation for all and one that challenges and develops performance teams
* Lead preparation and logistics for key competitions at local and national level e.g. Scottish Schools Cup
* Organise netball tours, training camps, pre-season, and performance opportunities
* Ensure excellent standards of organisation, communication, and logistics
6. Performance & Talent Development
* Develop and implement a structured player pathway from junior to senior level
* Identify, track, and nurture talented players, ensuring appropriate challenge and progression opportunities
* Design and oversee high quality training programmes tailored to performance teams
* Support student-athletes in achieving representative honours (district, regional, national)
* Monitor performance through regular assessment, feedback, and data-informed coaching practices
7. Programme Continuity & Legacy Building
* Respect and build upon the established ethos and systems developed by the previous Director
* Maintain successful traditions while identifying areas for growth and innovation
* Ensure sustainability of the programme through succession planning and long-term development strategies
Ideal Candidate:
* Has proven experience in performance Netball environments (school, club, academy, or professional setting).
* Possesses a strong understanding of player development pathways and long-term athletic development.
* Demonstrates the ability to identify and nurture emerging talent.
* Is an excellent communicator, capable of engaging players, parents, staff, and external stakeholders.
* Is highly organised.
* Is passionate about contributing to a broad, inclusive, and aspirational independent school sport programme.
Desired qualifications or experience
* Hold an appropriate netball coaching qualification – UKCC Level 2 minimum (or equivalent)
* Have a minimum of 3 years’ experience of coaching children of all ages, specifically P4 upwards
* Have experience working in different netball environments
* Have experience coaching Strength and Conditioning
Package Description:
The school prides itself on its warm and welcoming community, inclusive of all staff. Our teaching staff work alongside the operational teams to ensure the smooth running of the school. We value the contribution of all team members.
Through involvement in the co-curricular programme all those who work with us can bring their passions to work. Developing our talent is important to us. Access to training and professional development is available and encouraged.
Our reward package includes:
* Generous Defined Contribution Pension Scheme
* Access to onsite gym
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Employee Benefits Programme, including discounted access to health insurance, financial well-being products, cycle to work and electric car schemes as well as discounts to a number of major retailers
* Fee discount
* A three course lunch is provided during term time