Head Rowing Coach

George Watson’s College wishes to appoint a Head Rowing Coach to be responsible for leading the rowing programme in the School using their skill, experience and best endeavours.  

In addition, we are advertising for an Assistant Head Rowing Coach, please indicate in your cover letter if you would also like to be considered for this role.

  APPLICATION PROCESS   

To apply, please include a letter of application of not more than 800 words giving us more information about you and why you would like the role, addressed to Mrs Louise Clarke, Head of Senior School

If you require more information about the School, please visit our school website.

Closing date: 11:59pm on Wednesday 10 June 2026

Interviews are scheduled for Friday 19 June 2026.

To lead on the technical coaching of George Watson’s College (GWC) Rowing; developing a structured, innovative and challenging program (daily, weekly, monthly) to achieve optimal rowing performance, satisfaction and enjoyment.

To line manage a team of part-time rowing coaches in order to deliver a full rowing programme in the PE curriculum and as an established part of the extra-curricular opportunities available to pupils.

To develop and implement inclusive, purposeful and progressive sessions for all ages and abilities during curricular and extracurricular sessions.

To analyse requirements and design and implement appropriate training sessions aimed at improving confidence and technical ability with both novice and competent rowers.

To establish a competition calendar which allows all members of the boat club equal opportunities to compete at local and national events. Consult with relevant volunteer and professional coaches to select appropriate pupils to represent GWC at local/ national competitions, rowing camps and other events.

To take responsibility for the pastoral care of pupils; including accompanying pupils to rowing competitions throughout the season and supervising pupils during travel and overnight stay.

Essential criteria:

• Successful experience of working as a rowing coach in a performance setting or in a secondary school
• Ability to support and develop the inclusive ethos of sport and fitness at the School and the parity of esteem and opportunity for both girls’ and boys’ sport
• Flexible and imaginative in developing their practice and keep abreast of the latest developments in rowing
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and be able to work with colleagues from different disciplines and across both Junior and Senior Schools
• A personal commitment to Sport and Physical Education and be prepared to make a significant contribution to the extra-curricular life of the school
• Current, clean UK Driving  Licence with minibus and trailer provision
• PVG/Enhanced Disclosure Scotland validation (undertaken by GWC).
• A recognised Rowing coaching qualification, such as UKCC L2 or equivalent
• Experience of identifying and carrying out effective boat repairs and maintenance  

Desirable criteria:

• Experience of supervising others 
• First Aid Qualification. 
• IT literate - specific experience of using MS Word and Excel, including use of e-mail and familiarity with Internet resources

Location: George Watson’s College, Edinburgh

Contract Type: Full time, permanent

Salary: £36,721 - £41,838 (Based on 36.25 hours and 52 weeks)

Hours of Work: Full time working pattern with flexibility required due to the nature of the role

Benefits: Competitive salary, reduced school fees at George Watson’s College for children of staff, Membership of the Galleon Club (the school’s fitness club)