Job Description

Working at the RFU means being part of the ‘bigger picture’ at England Rugby: to be rooted in our purpose, which is to enrich lives, introduce more people to rugby union and develop the sport for future generations. If our purpose resonates with you, and you recognise the value that sport can bring to people’s lives, we’d love to work with you. An opportunity has arisen for a Girls PDG Lead Coach to join our Performance Rugby team in a casual role.

Job Title : Girls PDG Lead Coach

Department : Performance Rugby

Reports to : Girls Player Development Group Lead

Remuneration : c.£140 per 4-hour session, c.£280 per playing opportunity, c.£140 per day for administration to a max of 35 days per year

Location : North East - Northumberland, Durham, Cumbria

Employment Type : Casual Role

Application Information:

• As this position is subject to a DBS check, applicants are asked not to submit anonymised applications. Full personal and employment details will be required as part of the recruitment and vetting process.
• The closing date for applications 19th November 2026 at 12:00PM
• Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.

The Role:

The introduction of the girls Player Develop Group (PDG) U18 development phase centres is an exciting time for the girls’ performance pathway. An opportunity has arisen for a Girls PDG Lead Coach to join our Performance Rugby team in a casual role who will each oversee the planning and delivery of sessions and ensure the centre runs in line with the agreed aims of England Rugby.

Please note there are due to be approx. 20 sessions with PDG Development Group, which could involve certain sessions taking place in school holidays, evenings, and weekends. Session length will vary but we would expect them to last up to 4 hours.

This role will suit someone who is passionate about the growth of women’s rugby and developing players for the future.

Responsibilities:

Day-to-day responsibilities will include:

• Plan and lead all Rugby sessions at the PDG Development Phase Group and work with other staff members to ensure all sessions are delivered to the desired standard.
• Delivering sessions that focus on the core skill fundamentals of the game.
• Work with individuals to enhance their technical and tactical knowledge.
• Ensure athletic performance development is embedded as part of session delivery.
• Ensure all administrative work, and reporting to RFU is complete.
• Be a point of contact for parents, player and PDG Foundation Phase Leads.
• Work with players to develop individual development plans.
• Support local PDG Foundation coaches and have regular communication about future players.
• Actively collaborate with colleagues to contribute to the development and delivery of the current strategic, business and operational plans.
• Act as an ambassador for, and promote the best interests of the RFU, including the promotion of our culture and core values – This Rose Means Everyone: Put The Team First, Shape The Future, Respect Each Other.
• Undertake other duties as may be required from time to time as are consistent with the responsibilities of the post and the needs of the organisation.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience:

The skills and attributes outlined in this description are not exhaustive and we welcome candidates who can bring different relevant experiences to the role.

Essential:

• England Rugby Advanced Coaching Award (ERACA) or equivalent.
• Current driving license.
• Current DBS.
• Experience working within a talent development programme, ideally within the women and girls’ game.
• Good understanding of talent development and the age-grade girls’ game within England.
• Effective communication skills with a variety of stakeholders.
• Dedicated to driving forward inclusion in your role and day-to-day behaviours.
• Committed to embodying the ethos our culture by using our three core values – Put The Team First, Shape The Future, Respect Each Other – to guide your day-to-day decisions, actions and interactions.
• Proactively contributing and building an inclusive culture in your role and day to day behaviours.

Desirable:

• England Rugby mentoring qualification or similar.
• Strong organizational skills with a methodical approach with attention to detail.

Additional Information:

• All role holders must maintain an appropriate standard of confidentiality. Any disclosures of confidential information (including personal information kept on computer or other media) made unlawfully outside the proper course of duty will be treated as a serious disciplinary offence.
• We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If there is anything we could do to support you through your application or to provide the best environment for your interviews, including assistance or adjustment, please reach out to recruitment@rfu.com.
• During your application, we will ask questions about your identity. This information is considered highly confidential and will not be seen by hiring managers. You can find out more about why we ask these questions here.
• As part of our safer recruitment practices, the successful candidate will be required to complete a DBS check.