Academy Player Support Officer

Job Title:Academy Player Support Officer

Department:Academy

Reporting:Academy Player Support Manager

Location:Training Ground Jersey Road

Salary:Competitive

Brentford FC is a bit different to other Premier League football clubs. We put our fans first we are a true community club and while we are financially sustainable we are not afraid to take calculated risks. We take huge pride in our environment and culture within the Club which focuses on development inclusion and not being afraid to think differently.

Being progressive humble and respectful while sticking together as one team across the Club guides how we work and the decisions we make each day.

We also firmly believe that a diverse workforce is a better workforce which will help us develop ideas solve problems and ultimately grow Brentford FC.

We play in a brandnew stadium 15 minutes from Heathrow in vibrant west London.

We will never forget where we have come from but we are excited about the future that lies ahead.

Come join us.

Inclusion Statement

Brentford FC is an organisation which values and is passionate about diversity and inclusivity. We welcome and encourage applications from qualified candidates including those from underrepresented groups such as those from ethnically diverse backgrounds women those from the LGBTQ community and those with disabilities. Should you require any workplace accommodations (also known as reasonable adjustments) you will have the opportunity to let us know at the appropriate points in the hiring process.

Safeguarding Statement

Brentford FC is committed to equality the safeguarding and welfare of all children and adults at risk. This responsibility is shared by all staff and volunteers at the club safeguarding is everyones responsibility. Staff will be required to undertake regular safeguarding training to enable and reinforce a proactive approach to safeguarding. This role requires the post holder to apply all relevant policies and uphold the clubs commitment to safeguarding vulnerable people to ensure a safe environment for all. This includes the timely reporting of any safeguarding concern to the safeguarding team. We remind those barred from regulated activity that it is an offence to apply for such positions.

Please note that where appropriate for the role you may be required to complete additional background checks such as Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and this will include any time living or working outside of the UK in the last 10 years. You can find out more about this at

Please also note that a CV application will not be sufficient. Applications will not be considered where the application form has not been completed in full.

If the role you are applying for involves regulated activity and you have been shortlisted for a first stage interview you will be asked to fill out a Declaration of Offences Form.

The Role of Academy Player Support Officer

The Player Support Officer will be an integral part of the multidisciplinary team within the academy and support the delivery of the academy welfare strategy. The roles will have the opportunity to lead a robust holistic player support programme that creates the best possible environment for our Youth Development and Foundation Phase players and their families. You will also work with Academy and Club staff to ensure that Brentford FC is carrying out its duty of care in the running of its Academy.

Main Accountabilities

• Build and maintain excellent and communicative relationships with all players and parents by understanding each players background ascertaining and providing the appropriate support they need from the club
• Help players and their families prepare for effective transitions throughout their academy journey. This will include inductions as well as exit plans for the Youth Development Phase
• Support staff in various academy stakeholder meetings. This can include parent complaint procedures school meetings and further pastoral meetings
• Be an active member of multidisciplinary staff groups and contribute to player progress meetings as appropriate
• Support the planning implementation and review of the academy life skills programme for Players Parents and Host Families
• Effectively log manage and record player interactions and issues
• To lead and manage the Parent and Player voice initiatives disseminating information back to Senior Management
• Engage with planning of tours and tournaments for the foundation and youth phase age groups
• Liaise with the recruitment department regarding all trialist arrangements in the foundation and youth phases to ensure a highquality player and parent experience
• To deliver and coordinate personal development sessions with a focus on transitions for players across all phases to enable them to become highly developed in a wide range of areas that will support their journey as a football player and independent young person
• To work with the wider Player Support team to develop and implement comprehensive transition programme as players move from through the age groups or exit the Academy
• To ensure that relevant processes are in place and continually reviewed to allow transitions to be managed and coordinated across all the phases
• Work collaboratively within the Academy Wellbeing Team to provide proactive solutions and promote the academy safeguarding standards for children & young people and ensuring that club policies and procedures are adhered to at all times

• Acting as first point of contact for issues and concerns raised by players and parents
• To ensure that any concerns you observe or are raised with you in your role are shared with the Safeguarding Team through appropriate channels
• Work alongside the Clubs safeguarding department to ensure best practice and Premier League standards are met
• Support the wider Player Support team as and when required and reasonable this may involve travel to alternate club locations
• To support the club in line with audit requirements
• Other duties and responsibilities as required by your line manager

General Club Accountabilities

• To ensure compliance with all relevant Club policies including health and safety policies and with specific reference to the data regulations
• To ensure compliance with all relevant legal regulatory ethical and social requirements
• To ensure compliance with the Clubs Safeguarding Policy and processes
• To ensure compliance with the Clubs Code of Conduct
• To promote equity diversity and inclusion at the Club in line with our EDI strategy
• To build and maintain good working relationships both internally and externally maintaining a professional image at all times when representing Brentford FC
• To keep confidential any information gained regarding the Club and its personnel

• To maintain a flexible approach to work at all times

• Ability to work flexibly on evenings and weekends as appropriate to meet players needs (including attending trips/tours)

Key Internal Relationships

• Academy Safeguarding
• Academy Education
• Academy Management Team
• Academy Coaches

Person Specification Essential Personal Characteristics

• You will be a team player this is critical for us. The Club comes first and you will be prepared to work hard with enthusiasm alongside your colleagues
• Previous experience of working with minors and with Safeguarding protocols
• Excellent communication skills and a track record of building relationships
• Strong organisational and problemsolving skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
• Ability to present and communicate complex information in a simple and compelling way
• You will have a service mindset and will naturally want to go the extra mile to deliver outstanding results

Person Specification Desirable Characteristics

• Demonstratable experience of working with elite young athletes or educational environment
• Hold or working towards qualifications in education psychology or social work
• Experience and understanding of working in culturally diverse communities
• FA Safeguarding certificate
• EFAiF certificate
• Mental Health First Aid Certification