Junior Development Coach (Intern) –
Switch Rugby Academy

About the job

Purpose of the role: To assist the coaching team in delivering high-quality rugby development sessions at Switch Rugby Academy (SRA), North Somerset Centre, while gaining valuable coaching experience and developing personal coaching skills working with U12-U14 players.
Location: Hornets RFC, North Somerset
Session time: Mondays, 5:00pm – 6:00pm (term time only – all 6 school terms)
Remuneration: Unpaid internship position with Switch Rugby branded coaching kit provided
Contract type: Voluntary, part-time, term-time only
Start date: Monday, 20th April 2026
Closing date for applications: Thursday, 2nd April 2026

This role is ideal for:

Young coaches who have progressed through rugby development pathways as players and are keen to transition into coaching. This is an excellent opportunity for those with playing experience to learn from experienced coaches, apply their understanding of the game from a coaching perspective, and build their coaching portfolio in a supportive academy environment.

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities:

• Assist the Head Coach and Development Coach in delivering engaging rugby sessions for U12-U14 players. 
• Support individual players with skill development activities and provide encouragement. 
• Help set up and pack away training equipment and session areas. 
• Observe and learn from experienced coaches about session planning, player development, and coaching methodologies. 
• Maintain a positive, enthusiastic attitude and contribute to a supportive learning environment for players. 
• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of players during sessions. 
• Build positive relationships with players and fellow coaching staff. 
• Develop personal coaching skills through hands-on experience and mentorship. 
• Support the broader work of Switch Rugby Academy, including opportunities at Performance Camps during school holidays and additional rugby programmes. 

Personal Specification

Essential:

• Aged 16 years or over. 
• A genuine passion for rugby and strong desire to develop as a rugby coach. 
• Experience as a rugby player, ideally having progressed through a club or academy development pathway. 
• Understanding of the game from a player’s perspective. 
• Good communication skills and ability to relate positively to young people. 
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to attending sessions regularly. 
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow guidance from senior coaches. 
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and appropriate behavior. 
• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn coaching skills and methodologies. 

Desirable:

• Experience playing rugby at academy, representative, or club level. 
• Understanding of structured player development systems from personal experience. 
• Working towards or interested in completing an England Rugby Coaching Award (ERCA). 
• Some prior experience working with or supporting younger players. 
• Interest in pursuing a career in sports coaching, education, or player development. 
• First Aid qualification (can be completed in post). 
• Safeguarding awareness (training will be provided). 

Additional Information:

• All applicants must have the right to work in the UK. 
• This is an unpaid voluntary position, but provides excellent experience and development opportunities for aspiring coaches. 
• Switch Rugby branded coaching kit will be provided. 
• Switch Rugby celebrates diversity. Applications from under-represented groups are encouraged. 
• The role will require an Enhanced DBS Check and Safeguarding & Protecting Children certificate, which Switch Rugby Ltd will organize following appointment. 
• We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills and potential. If there is anything we could do to support you through your application or interview process, please let us know. 

About Switch Rugby Academy

At Switch Rugby Academy, we cultivate a passion for rugby by providing an environment where young players can build both their competence and confidence. Our programme blends skill acquisition, tactical exercises, and gameplay with a coach-to-player ratio of 1:10 or less. As a Junior Development Coach, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from experienced coaches while contributing to a positive, high-tempo learning environment that helps young athletes thrive.

What we can offer you:

• Valuable hands-on coaching experience in a structured academy environment. 
• Mentorship and learning opportunities from experienced rugby coaches. 
• Switch Rugby branded coaching kit. 
• Opportunities for further involvement at Performance Camps during school holidays and additional Switch Rugby programmes. 
• The opportunity to develop your coaching skills and build your coaching portfolio. 
• Experience working with age-group rugby players in a professional setting. 
• A supportive, friendly coaching team environment. 
• Opportunities to progress within Switch Rugby based on performance and development. 

Application process:

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter explaining your interest in developing as a rugby coach and what you hope to gain from this opportunity to: hello@switchrugby.com
Should you have any questions about the role or the application process, please contact hello@switchrugby.com.