Physical Development Coach Placement – Academy

Location: Chadwell Heath / Little Heath / Rush Green

Contract Type: Work Placement | Duration: July 2026 – July 2027

Hours: Full-time, including evenings and weekends

Department: Football Science & Medicine

Position: Are you passionate about developing young athletes and ready to gain hands-on experience in an elite football environment? West Ham United Football Club is offering an exciting opportunity for placement students to join our Academy Football Science & Medicine Department for the 2026/27 season. Working as part of our experienced interdisciplinary team, you’ll support the delivery of the Academy’s physical development programme , gaining experience in planning, delivering, and reviewing gym, field, and rehabilitation sessions. You’ll also contribute to player monitoring, testing, and data analysis, helping to turn performance insights into meaningful action. This placement provides an invaluable opportunity to grow your knowledge and skills within a Premier League Academy , working directly with players and staff across the performance pathway.

Requirements: What We’re Looking For

• Strong understanding of strength and conditioning principles
• Confident, adaptable coaching approach
• Collaborative, professional attitude
• A strong desire to learn, develop, and contribute
• Must be part of a degree programme (end date after Jan 2027)
• Demonstrates the Academy’s values: Hardworking, Exciting, Attitude, Respect and Togetherness.

Safeguarding Commitment

We’re committed to safer recruitment and safeguarding children and adults at risk. This role is subject to enhanced DBS checks.

Other information: What You’ll Get

• Access to an Individualised Learning and Development Programme.
• Monthly travel allowance (up to £500).
• Club kit provided.
• Breakfast and lunch on site.
• Opportunity to build a professional network within elite sport.

EDI Statement

The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, aligning with the organisation’s business and tactical approach to eliminating barriers and addressing inequity. You agree to actively contribute to creating a discrimination-free and inclusive environment, ensuring equitable access to opportunities and benefits, while fostering a culture of dignity and respect that enables everyone to perform and achieve their potential. Candidates must demonstrate their capability and willingness to uphold best practices and procedures, promoting lasting positive change while eliminating biases and barriers to attracting, achieving, and supporting talent from all communities, regardless of background, circumstances, or protected characteristics.

Safeguarding

The successful candidate must demonstrate a commitment to the safety and welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk of harm across all stakeholders. Everyone, including third parties who work with the Club or the West Ham Foundation, is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals. Successful candidates must undergo essential background checks before starting their employment, which may include screening of social media. The type of DBS check required will depend on the responsibilities of the position and may be basic, standard, or enhanced. The successful candidate agrees to proactively identify and respond appropriately to any concerns, and follow the Club's Safeguarding reporting procedures to report allegations of abuse, poor practice, or anything that may impact the welfare of a child, young person, or adult at risk without delay, within 24 hours, or as otherwise directed by the Club’s or the West Ham Foundation Safeguarding Team.

How To Apply

Please submit your CV (maximum two sides of A4)

Closing Date: Wednesday 10th December 2025 (Please note: this vacancy may close early if a high volume of applications is received.)

Due to the high volume of applications expected, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.