Cokethorpe School is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Sailing Coach or Head of Sailing to join our Outdoor Education Department and help deliver one of the School’s most distinctive co-curricular programmes. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing pupils’ confidence, resilience, teamwork and independence through sailing, working with young people ranging from complete beginners to competitive racers.
The School’s sailing programme is based at Farmoor Reservoir and benefits from a well-established fleet of Fireflies, Fevas and keelboats. The role combines practical coaching with planning, administration and programme development, offering an exciting opportunity to contribute to a growing area of Outdoor Education.
The Role
Working closely with the Head of Outdoor Education, the Sailing Coach will:
- Deliver high-quality sailing coaching across participation and performance pathways.
- Support pupils’ progression from introductory sailing through to competitive racing.
- Deliver the RYA training scheme and assess qualifications where appropriate.
- Help organise sailing fixtures, regattas, training days and trips.
- Support the maintenance and development of the School’s sailing fleet.
- Promote participation in sailing across both the Prep and Senior School.
- Work collaboratively with staff, external coaches and partner organisations to enhance opportunities for pupils.
About You
Applicants should hold an RYA Instructor qualification and have experience coaching young sailors across a range of abilities and craft types. Strong communication skills, excellent organisation and a genuine enthusiasm for working with young people are essential.
We would particularly welcome applications from candidates holding additional qualifications such as RYA Race Coach, Powerboat Level 2 or those with keelboat coaching experience.
An additional Head Sailing Coach responsibility may be available for suitably qualified and experienced candidates.
Hours and Salary
- Approximately 15 hours per week during term time.
- Core coaching sessions take place on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons.
- Around 20 additional sailing event days each year.
- £18 to £30 per hour, dependent on qualifications and experience.
To Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
- A covering letter addressed to Mrs Harriet Stapleton, Bursar, outlining their suitability for the role.
- A completed Cokethorpe School Support Staff Application Form.
Applications should be sent electronically to recruitment@cokethorpe.org.
Closing date: Midday, Friday 9 October 2026
Interviews: From Wednesday 14 October 2026
Start date: As soon as possible
Early applications are encouraged, and interviews may take place before the closing date for suitable candidates.
