Academy coach
Youth coach, phase coach, age group coach
Academy coaches plan and deliver training for young players in a club’s academy, helping them develop as footballers and as people.
Average salary (a year)
£22,000£36,000
StarterExperienced
Starter £22,000 to experienced £36,000
Typical hours (a week)
37 to 45plus match days
You could work
evenings and weekendsregularly
How to become an academy coach
You can get into this job through:
University
You can do a degree in a relevant subject.
Many academy coaches have a degree in sports coaching, sports science or physical education, which can include coaching placements at clubs. You’ll usually need 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree.
Courses, badges and licences
Football’s governing bodies run courses that are recognised across the game.
You’ll need coaching qualifications. Most people start with the FA’s Introduction to Coaching Football, then take the UEFA C Licence. Full-time academy roles usually ask for the UEFA B Licence, and senior academy roles for the UEFA A Licence.
You’ll also need the FA Safeguarding Children and Emergency First Aid in Football certificates.
Volunteering and work experience
Experience in the game counts. You could start by volunteering.
Coaching a grassroots team, helping at a community trust or supporting a school team is the usual way to start and build the experience clubs look for.
Applying directly
You may be able to apply directly to clubs and organisations.
Clubs advertise part-time sessional and full-time academy coaching jobs. Part-time roles are often the first step into a full-time post.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You’ll need:
- knowledge of how young people learn and develop
- the ability to plan and adapt sessions
- excellent communication with players, parents and staff
- patience and the ability to motivate others
- the ability to give clear, encouraging feedback
- a good understanding of the game and coaching methods
Restrictions and requirements
You’ll usually need to:
- pass enhanced background checks (DBS)
- hold in-date safeguarding and first aid certificates
- have a full driving licence for some roles
What you’ll do
Day-to-day tasks
In your day-to-day tasks you could:
- plan and deliver training sessions for an age group
- coach at games and review performances
- write player reviews and development plans
- meet parents to talk about progress
- work with sports science, education and welfare staff
- help identify and trial new players
Working environment
You’ll work at a training ground and travel to matches. You’ll be outdoors in all weathers, and your hours will include evenings and weekends when young players train and play.
Career path and progression
With experience you could become a lead phase coach, academy manager or head of coaching. Some academy coaches move into first team coaching, national youth teams or player development roles at the FA.
Current opportunities
5 live academy coach jobs on Softfootball right now.
Get ready
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Salaries and hours are typical figures for the UK and vary by club, league, location and experience. Last updated November 14, 2026.