Rugby Union Men's Head Coach (Self-Employed Contractor)

About the role

After a year out of action, Reading University Rugby Union Men's Club is seeking an experienced and passionate Head Coach to lead its return for the 2026/27 season. The post is open to an independent contractor working with a squad of about 40 student-athletes, alongside student leaders and Reading Students' Union, to build a positive, inclusive club culture.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the coaching and performance of the men's rugby union squad
• Plan and deliver engaging, high-quality training sessions
• Coach the team during BUCS fixtures, home and away
• Support players' technical, tactical and personal development
• Lead team selection in consultation with student club leaders
• Promote player welfare and safe participation, including adherence to concussion protocols
• Support trials and pre-season activities
• Work with the student committee and the union on delivery and development
• Comply with RFU and BUCS regulations and Students' Union policies

Required profile

• England Rugby Coaching Award or equivalent, or Level 2 coaching qualification
• Current first aid qualification
• Experience coaching rugby union
• Strong leadership, communication and player welfare skills
• Desirable: high-performance playing experience and university rugby experience
• Must be able to show self-employed status (or a limited company), public liability insurance of at least £5m, and any safeguarding or DBS documents required

Contract details

• Engagement as an independent contractor, fee-for-service, September 2026 to April 2027, with an extension subject to review
• Approximately 5 to 7 hours per week during term time, including evening training, Wednesday BUCS fixtures, trials and meetings
• Fee: £25 per hour, £100 per home match day, £150 per away match day
• The contractor is responsible for their own tax and National Insurance; a qualified substitute may be provided with prior approval