HEAD ROWING COACH Job

Somerset College, a leading independent, co-educational day and boarding school situated in the beautiful Cape Winelands, is actively seeking an exceptional Head Rowing Coach to lead and further develop its successful rowing programme. This pivotal role, which commences on Wednesday, 1 April 2026, is perfect for a passionate, experienced, and dynamic individual capable of inspiring excellence both on and off the water. If you possess a strong coaching background and a commitment to holistic student growth, this exciting opportunity awaits, with applications closing on 26 November 2025.

Detailed list of key vacancy information

• School name: Somerset College
• Type of institution: A leading independent, co-educational day and boarding school, established in 1997. It offers schooling from Grade 000 up to Matric (IEB) and Cambridge AS and A-levels.
• Location: Bredell Road, Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa, nestled within the picturesque Cape Winelands.
• Position: Head Rowing Coach
• Commencement date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
• Application closing date: 26 November 2025
• Original vacancy source: For the full details of this role and to review the original listing, please visit the ISASA website here.

Simple summary of the vacancy

This vacancy at Somerset College is for a Head Rowing Coach who will be instrumental in overseeing and enhancing the school’s established rowing programme. The successful candidate will play a critical role, providing high-level coaching, mentorship, and development for both athletes and assistant coaches. Key responsibilities include shaping the overall direction, culture, and performance standards of the Somerset College Rowing Club, alongside delivering structured pre-season and in-season training programmes that consistently support the holistic growth of students. The position demands coaching on four weekdays and Saturdays during the rowing season, ensuring the highest standards in technical execution, physiological development, and safety.

Beyond direct coaching, the Head Rowing Coach will manage all administrative aspects of the programme. This involves meticulous planning, budget management, practice scheduling, travel arrangements, cost management, and the procurement of necessary supplies and equipment. The role also includes collaborating with the Master in Charge (MIC) for the recruitment and selection of student-athletes, managers, and coaches. A fundamental aspect of this position is a commitment to a philosophy that strongly emphasises academic priorities for student-athletes, requiring an understanding of the demands placed on them and a willingness to help them succeed in both their studies and competitive rowing. Effective communication with the parent community regarding the rowing strategy and progress is also a core duty.

Furthermore, the Head Rowing Coach will be responsible for overseeing athlete and crew selection processes, maintaining detailed performance records, and managing training camps and regattas. Equipment supervision, including boat rigging and maintenance, falls under this role. Administratively, they will manage daily club operations, coordinate race calendars with Western Cape Rowing (WCR) and RowSA, and represent Somerset College at various meetings. Strategic input on the long-term direction of the rowing programme, fostering positive relationships with neighbouring schools and clubs, and engaging in appropriate public relations and fundraising activities are also expected. Candidates should have proven experience as a rowing coach, strong leadership and organisational skills, in-depth knowledge of rowing techniques and safety standards, and relevant RowSA coaching accreditations. A coaching qualification or teaching background will be considered advantageous.

How to apply for this post

To apply for this Head Rowing Coach position at Somerset College, please follow these guidelines:

• Prepare a concise letter of application that clearly outlines your suitability for this specific role.
• Ensure your Curriculum Vitae (CV) is comprehensive and up-to-date, detailing your relevant experience and qualifications.
• Provide the contact details for three professional references who can speak to your abilities and character.
• Email these three documents confidentially to the Human Resources Officer at [email protected].
• Please be aware that Somerset College is an equal opportunity employer and reserves the right not to make an appointment. Submitting an application does not automatically guarantee an interview.
• In compliance with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act), Somerset College will ensure the confidentiality of all applicants. Your personal information will be protected but used strictly for the recruitment, selection, and reporting processes. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer.

Questions you might have and how to become a preferred candidate for this role

Here are some common questions a potential candidate might have, along with advice on how to stand out:

• Q: What are the absolute must-have qualifications for this position?
  A: You must have proven experience as a rowing coach, preferably at a competitive school or club level, along with relevant RowSA coaching accreditations. Current certifications in first aid, CPR, and AED use are mandatory within 30 days of employment, as is a valid Police Clearance Certificate (not older than one month).
• Q: How important is a teaching background?
  A: While not strictly required, a teaching background is stated as advantageous. This suggests the school values candidates who understand educational environments and student development beyond just sports, demonstrating a holistic approach.
• Q: What does “inspiring excellence both on and off the water” truly mean?
  A: It implies not just achieving high performance in competitions but also fostering a positive team culture, promoting good sportsmanship, and ensuring athletes maintain academic success and personal well-being. Showcase examples where you’ve nurtured all these aspects.
• Q: How can I demonstrate my leadership and organisational skills effectively?
  A: In your CV and application letter, highlight specific instances where you’ve successfully led teams, managed complex programmes (including budgets and logistics), and organised events or schedules. Quantify your achievements where possible.
• Q: What specific knowledge of rowing regulations is expected?
  A: You need an in-depth understanding of rowing techniques, training methodologies, and safety standards. Familiarity with RowSA regulations and competitive rowing structures is crucial, and FISA accreditation would be a significant plus.
• Q: How will my commitment to academic priorities for student-athletes be evaluated?
  A: Be prepared to discuss your philosophy on balancing academics and sport. Provide examples of how you’ve supported student-athletes in managing their time, excelling in their studies, and understanding the demands of both.
• Q: What kind of stakeholder engagement experience should I highlight?
  A: Emphasise your ability to build and maintain strong relationships with parents, fellow coaches, school administration (like the MIC), and external bodies such as Western Cape Rowing and RowSA. Your capacity for strategic input and representation is key.
• Q: What kind of personality traits are they looking for?
  A: The vacancy mentions a need for a “passionate, experienced and dynamic individual.” Beyond skills, demonstrate your enthusiasm, resilience, adaptability, and positive influence on young people in your application and interview.
• Q: How can I make my application stand out among other strong candidates?
  A: Tailor your application precisely to the job description, using keywords from the vacancy. Focus on tangible achievements and how your experience directly addresses each responsibility and qualification. A well-structured, clear, and error-free application makes a strong first impression.
• Q: Are there opportunities for professional development or other teaching jobs within the school?
  A: While the role is focused on rowing, the emphasis on a coaching qualification and teaching background suggests a school that values continuous professional growth and integrated educational approaches. Inquiring about professional development opportunities could show your long-term commitment.
• Q: What are the key details I should remember about the application timeline?
  A: Mark your calendar for the closing date of 26 November 2025. This gives you ample time to prepare a comprehensive application. The position itself commences on 1 April 2026.

Institution details

• Website: http://www.somersetcollege.org
• Address: Bredell Road, Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa