Head of Education and Player Care

Job title: Head of Education and Player Care.

Responsible to: Academy Manager.

Bradford City AFC Academy is recruiting a Head of Education and Player Care. While the role is designed as a full-time position covering both specialisms, we value expertise and welcome applications tailored to either or both areas, as detailed below:

• Option A: Full-Time Role – Head of Education & Player Care (40 hours per week)

• Option B: Part-Time Specialist – Head of Education (20 hours per week)

• Option C: Part-Time Specialist – Player Care Lead (20 hours per week)

Working within our Category 3 Academy, you will build a positive, supportive environment where young players can thrive in their schoolwork, personal lives, and overall well-being alongside their football development across all age groups.

A candidate taking on the combined full-time role will oversee both areas below, while part-time specialists will focus on their chosen 20-hour role.

Education (20 Hours per Week)

• Plan, deliver, and track the Academy Education Programme in line with EFL and

League Football Education (LFE) guidelines.

• Oversee the delivery of the BTEC Sport qualification and apprenticeship framework for

U18 scholars.

• Maintain regular contact with local schools for younger players, monitoring attendance, academic progress, and day-release schedules.

• Accurately maintain all educational records on required academy tracking systems.

• Prepare players for life after football by facilitating career guidance and vocational training options.

Player Care (20 Hours per Week)

• Act as the primary point of contact for player care across all age groups, promoting emotional well-being, mental health awareness, and personal growth.

• Design and deliver engaging, age-appropriate Life Skills workshops covering topics such as online safety, financial literacy, health, and mental well-being.

• Guide young players and their families through critical Academy transitions, including induction, scholarship signing, and exit/release strategies.

• Work closely with the Academy Safeguarding Lead to maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.

• Support players and families with transport and general welfare logistics as needed.

Other requirements

• Positively represent the culture and values of the Academy in every interaction.

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times, adhere strictly to operational policies

• Undertake any other reasonable duties, as requested by your Line Manager.

• Work within and adhere to all Academy policies and procedures, maintaining a strong understanding of Bradford City AFC's culture and values.

Selection process

• Stage One: Shortlisted candidates will attend an interview at Valley Parade.

• Stage Two: Candidates moving to Stage Two will be invited to the Academy to give a

short presentation on their chosen area (Education, Player Care, or both) and

complete a practical task.