Head of Rugby

The Role

The Head of Rugby shall provide strategic direction, leadership, and management of the rugby programmes (15s and 7s) at Langley School in line with the Vision for Sport and core values of the school. In liaison with the Head of Langley Sport and the Head of Prep Sport, the Head of Rugby shall create and coach on a programme of rugby for boys and girls from Year 3 to Upper Sixth. You shall also further develop the girls' rugby programme at Langley Senior School, making Langley the school of choice for rugby playing girls in the area.

You shall create the rugby fixture list, for all year groups at Langley Senior School, to ensure a balance of meaningful fixtures for all levels of participation. Liaise closely with the Head of Langley Sport, other Heads of Sports and the Sports Administrator regarding fixtures, including transport, catering, first aid arrangements and referees. Also ensuring that the Health & Safety aspects of all rugby activities are met and amendments to the Risk Assessments are dealt with in a timely manner.

Ensure all team sheets are published in good time, pupils are accurately signed out for fixtures and that registration takes place at every games session. Provide a weekly plan for Games sessions to those staff who coach on the rugby programme. Be present on match days either in the capacity of lead coach or in support of other coaches who are leading teams. Insist on high levels of engagement and encourage excellent standards of behaviour, both during games sessions and when at fixtures. Communicate results with the Sports Administrator and publish match summaries on social media.

Work proactively to recruit high-level rugby players to Langley School, including developing links with local clubs, academies and associated development pathway opportunities. Work with the Head of Athletic Development to provide a program of conditioning support for rugby players at Langley School. Use video analysis and host feedback sessions to further enhance game understanding. Arrange pre-seasons, tours and out-of- term training sessions to develop the requisite individual, unit and team capabilities. Provide regular INSET and continuous coaching support, guidance, and practical advice to ensure the development of all rugby coaches at Langley School.

Administer the rugby budget, liaising closely with the Head of Langley Sport regarding expenses, coaching expenditure and preparing the annual budget. Maintain an audit of coaching equipment to ensure that all equipment is well maintained throughout the year. Continually communicate with the Head of Grounds regarding pitches and facilities. Lead on the organisation of the National U15 Rugby Festival at Langley Senior School in liaison with relevant departments within school and other key stakeholders externally. Liaise with Norfolk Schools Rugby with regards to hosting county tournaments at 15s and 7s. Provide outreach opportunities in local primary schools including hosting festival and tournament events. Represent Langley School at all county, regional and HMC Rugby meetings and attend PE and Games Departmental meetings. Liaise with the marketing department to promote rugby at Langley School. Establish develop, and manage rugby camps at Langley School sites.

Skills and Experience

• Successful experience of coaching rugby, preferably in a school environment.
• Excellent knowledge of long-term development practices for young rugby players.
• Understanding of integrating successful sports' programs into a school's educational environment, including clear empathy of academic and pastoral needs.
• Experience of managing and developing others, including the development of other rugby players.
• A pupil-centred leader.
• Respected in the professional game and/or schools.
• A self-starter who is capable of creating and implementing new ideas.
• The successful candidate must have an enjoyment in working hard and a 'get up and go' mentality.
• A willingness to contribute to the extensive extra-curricular program of the department, including fixtures, events and trips.
• Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, pupils and parents.
• Act as a role model to others, demonstrating high standards of professionalism in all aspects of leadership to inspire and enthuse members of the team.