AIS - Athletics / Track & Field Specialist Coach

Role Overview:

The Athletics / Track & Field Specialist Coach is responsible for the high-quality technical delivery of athletics across all programme levels from Mini Athletics to the Performance Pathway. This is a coaching-first role with additional programme leadership responsibilities, combining hands-on session delivery with curriculum design, squad mentorship, and wider operational contributions to AIS Athletics within ESM Academies. The post holder drives competitive success through athlete-centred coaching, rigorous performance planning, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Key Objectives:

• Curriculum Design: Help to develop and implement a detailed coaching curriculum that caters to athletes at various performance levels, from fundamental to elite. Regularly assess and refine the curriculum to ensure it adheres to the latest standards and best practices in athletics coaching.
• Programme Management: Manage the operations of the athletics programme, focusing on the technical growth and performance of athletes across all levels. Work closely with coaches and support staff to implement precise training plans and monitor athlete progress to achieve competitive success.
• Technical Coaching: Provide specialized coaching across the curriculum, ensuring athletes at fundamental, development, and elite levels receive tailored technical guidance and support.
• Technical Committee Participation: Actively participate in the Technical Athletics Committee, contributing to the development of the philosophy and strategic direction for athletics within ESM Academies. Engage in regular meetings to discuss technical best practices, new initiatives, and performance outcomes.
• Professional Development: Identify and attend CPD workshops/seminars focused on advanced techniques and quality coaching to motivate and elevate the skills of individuals within the programme.
  
  
  

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Behaviours:

Essential Qualifications

Candidates must hold recognised athletics coaching qualification from one of the following bodies. Equivalent qualifications from national governing bodies will be considered.

• England Athletics: England Athletics: Level 1 Coach in Athletics (minimum); Level 2 or above preferred for those working with Performance and Elite athletes.
• World Athletics: World Athletics: World Athletics Level 1/2 Coaching Certificate or above.
• UAE Athletics Federation: UAE Athletics Federation: Coaching licence at an equivalent intermediate or advanced level as recognised by the UAE Athletics Federation or UAE National Olympic Committee.
  
  
  

The full qualification pathway for reference is as follows:

Desired Qualifications:

• Assistant Leader: For those new to coaching, volunteers, or parents looking to assist coaches.
• Level 1: Suitable for beginner coaches, teachers, and volunteers, providing foundational skills in organising and leading basic athletics activities.
• Level 2: For coaches seeking to develop their knowledge & experience to coach at higher level.
• Level 3: For experienced coaches working with performance athletes, focusing on advanced coaching skills and strategies.
• Level 4 and above: For coaches aiming to coach elite athletes, focusing on advanced performance strategies, macrocycle planning, and high-level competition.
  
  
  

Desired Experience:

• Proven experience in a related field, demonstrating a track record of success in coaching and athlete development.
  
  
  

Job-Specific Knowledge & Skills:

• High-level IT skills, including proficiency in using CRM systems for athlete management and communication.
• Strong customer service and relationship management skills to effectively engage with athletes, parents, and other stakeholders.
• Excellent time management skills to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the role, ensuring trust and integrity within the team.
• Confidence and capability to develop strong relationships with athletes and staff to foster collaboration and a positive training environment.