Barnsley Football Club is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Academy Education & LFE SEP Coordinator to lead the strategic and operational delivery of its education programme. This pivotal role supports the academic and personal development of young players across the Academy, ensuring alignment with the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) and League Football Education (LFE) standards.
You will oversee the Full-Time and Hybrid Training Models, manage relationships with educational institutions, and coordinate the Sporting Excellence Programme. Working within a multi-disciplinary team, you’ll play a key role in shaping the educational journey of scholars, supporting their progression both on and off the pitch. This is a unique opportunity to influence the future of young athletes through innovative education strategies, welfare support, and holistic development planning.
You will:
- Lead and manage the Academy’s Education Department in alignment with Club strategy and EPPP standards.
- Oversee the Full-Time and Hybrid Training Models, including coordination with local colleges and monitoring player progress.
- Manage the Sporting Excellence Programme (SEP), ensuring compliance with LFE and preparation for End Point Assessments.
- Track and report educational attainment using internal systems and the Performance Management Application (PMA).
- Develop and implement Individual Learning Plans and intervention strategies to support player academic achievement.
- Coordinate and deliver CPD programmes for education staff, aligned with departmental goals.
- Attend Academy Management Team meetings and liaise with LFE on induction, progression, and reporting activities.
- Manage departmental budgets and resources, ensuring effective financial planning and control.
- Support welfare initiatives including lifestyle management, safeguarding, and host family liaison.
- Oversee transport arrangements for scholars, ensuring safe and appropriate practices.
- Collaborate across departments to ensure a holistic approach to player development.
- Undertake additional duties as required by the Senior Management Team within a multi-disciplinary framework.
About The Candidate
Qualifications
•(BEd) degree, or bachelor of arts (BA), or bachelor of science (BSc) degree
•QTS or QTLS to meet category 2 requirements
•Current DBS certification
Skills & experience
* Educational Leadership – Proven ability to lead and manage educational programmes within a football academy or similar setting.
* Curriculum & Programme Delivery – Experience in implementing and overseeing training models and apprenticeship programmes, including SEP and EPA.
* Stakeholder Engagement – Skilled in liaising with colleges, external partners, and internal departments to support player education.
* Safeguarding & Welfare – Strong understanding of safeguarding principles and experience supporting the welfare of young people.
* Data & Performance Monitoring – Competent in using systems like PMA and EMS to track, report, and analyse educational progress.
* Communication & Collaboration – Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team.
* CPD & Staff Development – Experience in planning and delivering continuing professional development for education staff.
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