Head Coach

Inspire. Develop. Lead.

Stirling Swimming Club is seeking an ambitious and athlete-centred Head Coach to lead the next stage of our exciting club development journey.

Celebrating our 50th anniversary year, Stirling Swimming Club is one of Scotland’s largest competitive swimming clubs, supporting approximately 180 swimmers across four training venues. As a club we have access to outstanding facilities, primarily located at Stirling University Pool and pool capacity to support growth. We provide a complete swimmer pathway from Learn to Swim transition through development and performance squads to Masters swimming.

Following a period of regeneration and growth, the club has ambitious plans for continued development across participation, swimmer progression, coaching quality and long-term sustainability. We are looking for an experienced coach who can help shape a positive, inclusive and high-performing environment where swimmers, coaches and volunteers can thrive.

The Opportunity

Working closely with the Club Committee and coaching team, the Head Coach will provide leadership across the club’s swimming programme, supporting swimmer development, coaching standards, competition planning and long-term progression opportunities.

This is a hands-on coaching and leadership opportunity with scope to shape programme delivery, contribute to the club’s future direction and support the club’s ambitious growth plans over the coming years.

The role offers the opportunity to work within a supportive club environment with strong links to Scottish Swimming and the wider Stirling performance pathway.

Key Areas of Focus

Deliver a high-quality, swimmer-centred coaching programme across the club pathway

Support long-term athlete development and progression

Foster a positive and motivating training culture

Lead coach for Performance squad

Mentor and support the wider coaching team

Strengthen swimmer growth and retention and club development

Support continued improvement in swimmer progression and performance trends, including progression opportunities within the Scottish National Age Group Structure (SNAGS), National and British competitions.

Build strong relationships with the Club committee, swimmers, parents, volunteers and partners

Contribute to the ongoing sustainability and growth of the club

About You

Passionate about swimmer development and athlete wellbeing

An effective communicator and collaborative leader

Organised, enthusiastic and forward-thinking

Experience of mentoring and leading a team of coaches and volunteer poolside helpers

Experienced in competitive swimming coaching across age-group and development pathways

Committed to creating a positive, inclusive and enjoyable environment

Essential Qualifications & Experience

Scottish Swimming SSCQ / Swim England Level 2 (minimum) or equivalent

Experience coaching competitive swimmers across development and performance pathways

Strong understanding of athlete development and competition planning

Current Safeguarding And First Aid Qualifications

PVG membership (or willingness to obtain)

Level 3 / Head Coach qualification and experience within performance environments would be advantageous.

Location & Commitment

Training is primarily based at the University of Stirling, with additional sessions delivered at venues across Stirling.

The coaching commitment includes a mixture of evening, morning and weekend sessions, alongside weekend competition attendance, planning and programme coordination responsibilities. Flexibility is expected on both sides to meet the needs of the programme throughout the season.

Application Process

Applicants Should Submit

A current CV

A short covering letter outlining their suitability and coaching philosophy

Details Of Relevant Coaching Qualifications And Experience

Confirmation that you have a “right to work” in the UK – applicants without this in place will not be considered.

Shortlisted applicants may be invited to interview and practical coaching assessment.

Stirling Swimming Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects everyone involved with the club to share this commitment.