Coaching Opportunities
The role involves coaching the children in football at weekly practice and on matchdays which is usually Sunday’s.
What are we looking for?
Coaching Qualification: While you don’t need a coaching qualification to start as a volunteer, you will be expected to work towards one as per the Football Association Accreditation requirements. This typically involves completing four online courses:
- EE Playmaker Course (5 hours online) – Cost FREE
- Safeguarding Children Course (2 hours online) – Cost £30
- Introduction to First Aid in Football (2 hours online) – Cost £30
- Introduction to Coaching Football (4 weeks / 3 online training sessions) – Cost £100
Qualities Expected from Volunteers:
Reliability: Being dependable and showing up as scheduled is essential.
Punctuality: Good time management and punctuality are important.
Enthusiasm: A strong passion for the role is encouraged, as it can positively impact the players’ experience.
Communication Skills: Being able to effectively communicate with children of all age groups is vital for their development and well-being.
Football Knowledge: While some knowledge of football is important, a high level of expertise isn’t necessary. The primary focus is on creating a fun and safe environment for the children to learn and enjoy the game.
Organisational Skills: Organisational skills will help in planning and running effective training sessions and activities.
Overall, the club is looking for volunteers who are committed to the role, have a genuine interest in working with children in a football context, and are willing to invest time in their own development through the required courses. This is a great opportunity for those who are passionate about both football and youth development.
Practical Considerations
Availability: Volunteers are expected to be available on Sunday mornings for matches and one evening per week on either Monday, Wednesday or Friday, and depending on the age group you are volunteering with sometimes twice a week for training. This schedule is important for actively participating in the coaching and development of the children.
Season Duration: The football season with Apsley Football Club runs from September to the following April. Volunteers are encouraged to commit to at least one season, and ideally for a longer-term commitment. This longer commitment helps provide stability for the children and the club.
Criminal Record Check (DBS): The role requires volunteers to undergo a criminal record check, typically a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in the UK, to ensure the safety and protection of the children. The club covers the cost of this background check.
Contact Information: If you are interested in volunteering as a coach for Apsley Football Club, you can contact Garry at football@apsleyfc.org for more information or to express your interest.
These details provide a clear understanding of the time commitment, the need for a background check, and how to get in touch if you’re interested in becoming a volunteer coach with the club. It’s a valuable opportunity for those who want to contribute to the development of young football players.
What do I need to do now?
If you are not yet a qualified coach:
Before we or anyone else can work with you as a volunteer coach you will need to complete an Enhanced DBS check through the club.
Step 1 – If you haven’t done so already you will need to visit www.thefa.com and register as a coach, this takes 2 minutes and you will be given a FAN Number.
Step 2 – Provide your FAN Number and Date of Birth to the Club.
Step 3 – The Club will then direct you to start your DBS Check – while you are waiting please continue to Step 4.
Step 4 – Complete the following courses with the FA – ALL ONLINE COURSES.
- The FA Safeguarding Children Course (£30 / 2 hours). Refunded in full at the end of the season.
- The FA Introduction to First Aid in Football (£30 / 2 hours). Refunded in full at the end of the season.
- The FA Playmaker Course (£FREE/5 hours).
At this stage you can be invited in to assist with coaching.
Step 5 – Sign up for and Complete the FA Introduction to Coaching Football course (3 x online sessions over 4 weeks) – this is completed online at a cost of £100 and paid directly by yourself to the FA. Once you have completed a FULL season with us we shall reimburse the £100 back to you.
You cannot be left in charge of children until you have completed a DBS and you are aged 18+.
If you are already a qualified coach:
Presuming you hold all the above qualifications and trainings you may be asked to complete an up to date DBS. You may be asked to refresh your Safeguarding and First Aid training. During your interview and throughout the season we shall assess your needs and discuss your development with Apsley Football Club.
Please note that Team Managers, Coaches and Assistant Coaches must adhere to the Apsley Football Club code of conduct at all times. You shall only be entitled to coach at Apsley Football Club if you have a) an up to date DBS, plus b) the correct coaching qualification for the job, plus c) a valid FA Safeguarding Children qualification, plus d) a valid FA First Aid training qualification, and plus e) Permission to coach from an Apsley Football Club Club Chairman or Club Secretary.
Parents/Assistants – You may assist your team coach in training and on match day (we want you to) if you have a) an up to date DBS, plus b) a minimum of the EE Playmaker course, plus c) a valid FA Safeguarding Children qualification, plus d) Introduction to First Aid in Football, and plus e) Permission to assist your coach from the Apsley Football Club, Club Chairman or Head of Football. Please note: You may only assist, this does not entitle you to coach the session or supervise the match as the coach or take the lead if a qualified coach is not present.
If you only have your DBS you can be part of our training ratios.