Argyle Academy are recruiting for an exciting coaching position within our Academy and are seeking a highly motivated and experienced U15s & U16s Lead Coach to play a key role within our Youth Development Phase (YDP).
The successful candidate will take a lead role in the planning, delivery and review of the U15 and U16 programme, supporting players through an important stage of their Academy journey and preparing them for progression into the Professional Development Phase.
Vacancy: U15s & U16s Lead Coach
This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious coach to have a significant influence on the development of our young players, working within a progressive, multidisciplinary Academy environment with a strong emphasis on individual player development and creating a pathway towards our U18s and First Team.
As the Club continues its transition to Foulston Park, this role offers the opportunity to join Plymouth Argyle at an exciting stage in the continued development of our Academy.
Essential requirements
- UEFA A Licence.
- FA Advanced Youth Award.
- FA Youth Award.
- FA Safeguarding qualification.
- Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAiF)
- Significant experience coaching within a professional football Academy or high-performance player development environment.
- Strong understanding of player development within the Youth Development Phase, particularly the U15/U16 age groups.
- Demonstrable experience of developing individual players through structured development plans.
- Strong understanding of the transition from Academy football into the Professional Development Phase.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the planning, delivery and review of the U15 and U16 coaching programme, including training sessions, match days and individual development plans.
- Take responsibility for creating a high-quality, challenging and development-focused learning environment for U15 and U16 players.
- Design, implement and regularly review Individual Development Plans (IDPs) for players.
- Ensure all players receive formal performance reviews in accordance with EPPP requirements and Academy timelines.
- Deliver a holistic player development programme incorporating technical, tactical, physical, psychological and social development.
- Support players through the important transition from the Youth Development Phase into the Professional Development Phase and U18 programme.
- Work closely with the Head of Player & Coach Development and PDP staff to ensure effective succession planning and individual player progression.
- Support the implementation and continued development of the Club's playing and coaching philosophy.
- Maintain accurate player records and ensure relevant information and data is updated on FIP and Academy systems.
- Work collaboratively within the Academy's multidisciplinary team, including Medical & Performance, Analysis, Education, Player Care and Recruitment.
- Contribute to player succession planning, retain/release processes and decisions regarding progression into the scholarship programme.
- Build strong and professional relationships with players and parents, providing clear and appropriate communication regarding player development.
- Contribute to player inductions, parent meetings, Academy events and other activities across the wider Academy programme.
- Support the development of a high-performing Academy culture, setting consistently high standards for players both on and off the pitch.
For more specific information about the role, follow the link here.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted via the EFL iRecruit system:
New users will be required to set up an account.
Closing Date for Applications: 5pm, Tuesday, 8 September, 2026.
Interview Date: W/C Monday, 14 September.
Salary: Circa £30,000 per annum.
