Canford School – Rowing Coach
We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Rowing Coach to support the schools rowing programme and activities.
The School prides itself on being able to compete locally, nationally and internationally in Rowing, which is an extremely popular sport at the School. With a rich tradition of success and a thriving community of rowers, Canford Boat Club sits proudly on the banks of the River Stour, nestled within the stunning Dorset countryside.
With the ability to inspire pupils through effective coaching and an enthusiasm for sport and physical activity you will hold at least the Level 2 Club Coach qualification and be able to demonstrate appropriate experience.
Working on a casual basis for an average of 12 hours per week in academic term time, hours will mainly be worked on Tuesdays from 1030 until 1200 and 1400 until 1700; Thursdays from 1400 until 1700; Saturdays from 1330 until 1600 plus additional hours depending on Saturday fixtures. Flexibility will be required as working hours will vary depending on the schools games programme, pupil timetable and rowing fixtures and events. We also run a full racing calendar for all age groups so additional hours will be needed to support head races and regattas on weekends through the year.
This is a term-time position with the opportunity to support summer camps and events, which may take place during school holidays.
Our rowing programme must offer all of our pupils the chance to explore the opportunities that the sport offers, allow them to express themselves through their physical wellbeing activities and facilitate those who wish to excel in their chosen path. The aim is to inspire a generation of Canford pupils to achieve their potential in sport and to promote their physical wellbeing throughout their lives
The Rowing Coach will be required to instruct pupils and offer support and advice regarding the sport of rowing and preparing pupils for competition where appropriate. They will also be involved in supporting all rowing activities and will involve attending events both at Canford and at external venues, accompanying and supervising pupils at events. We run a full racing calendar for all age groups so additional hours will be required to support head races and regattas on weekends through the year.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- To coach pupils in the technical skills of rowing, in accordance with British Rowing Association methods.
- To encourage and support pupils wishing to compete at all levels.
- To monitor and report to the Head of Rowing pupil progress.
- To ensure that health and safety procedures are adhered to by staff and pupils when using the boathouse and river.
- To support pupils at regattas which will involve evenings and some weekend work. If not attending events personally the Rowing Coach must ensure appropriate support and supervision for all Canford pupils who are competing
- Supervision of pupils during games afternoons and events that are held off-site
- Supporting the Head of Rowing in organising termly events, both in-house and external
- Monitor and maintain the standards of dress, kit and conduct in rowing
- Ensure any costs or budget requirements are approved by the Head of Rowing.
No job description can fully cover all aspects of such an appointment and consequently the responsibilities are likely to expand and evolve.
CRITERIA FOR SUCCESS:
- Actively supporting the ethos of the school, and effective integration of the rowing programme within the wider sports programme and within the whole school context.
- Contributing to the effective and efficient development and delivery of the rowing programme to ensure appropriate opportunity, provision, participation and support for players at all levels.
- Assisting in the effective development of coaching and evidence that high standards of teaching and learning in the Sports Department are being maintained.
- Maintaining positive relationships with staff and pupils.
- Professional appearance and manner
- Ideally able to drive.
KEY SKILLS AND PERSONAL QUALITIES REQUIRED
- Excellent subject knowledge
- An ability to inspire pupils through effective teaching and coaching .
- Enthusiasm for sport and physical activity
- A commitment to improving pupil outcomes.
- Ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing.
- Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
- Willingness to reflect and be adaptable.
- Good organisation and planning skills
- Commitment to the values and ethos of the school
- It is anticipated that the Rowing would hold at least the Level 2 Club Coach qualification and be able to demonstrate the appropriate experience.
Canford School is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of our community and encourages applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Canford School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
All successful job applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening.
For queries contact Charlotte Toogood, Assistant Head of Rowing on [email protected]
Salary: Sports coach rates start at £20.59 per hour
Type: Working on a casual basis for an average of 12 hours per week in academic term time
Application Dates: From Friday 28th November 2025 to Sunday 7th December 2025