HEAD ROWING COACH Job

Somerset College, a leading co-educational day and boarding school nestled in the beautiful Cape Winelands, is seeking a passionate and experienced Head Rowing Coach. This exciting opportunity, with a commencement date of Wednesday, 1 April 2026, invites a dynamic individual to lead and develop their successful rowing programme, inspiring excellence both on and off the water. The role encompasses high-level coaching, programme management, and extensive administration, with applications, including a CV and references, to be submitted by 26 November 2025.

Detailed vacancy information

• Name of the school: Somerset College
• Job Title: Head Rowing Coach
• Commencement Date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
• Application Closing Date: 26 November 2025
• Location: Bredell Road, Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa
• Original Vacancy Source: Click here for the original listing

Simple summary of the vacancy

Somerset College, a prominent independent school established in 1997, is actively seeking a dedicated Head Rowing Coach to lead their highly successful rowing programme. This pivotal position calls for a dynamic individual capable of delivering high-level coaching and mentorship while also shaping the overall culture and performance standards of the Somerset College Rowing Club. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive pre-season and in-season training programmes, coaching on four weekdays and Saturdays during the rowing season, and rigorously upholding technical, physiological, and safety standards.

Beyond the water, the role involves significant administrative responsibilities, including budget management, practice scheduling, travel arrangements, equipment procurement, and the recruitment of student-athletes, managers, and assistant coaches in collaboration with the Master in Charge (MIC). A strong commitment to the academic priorities of student-athletes is crucial, alongside the ability to effectively communicate the rowing strategy and progress to the parent community. The coach will also oversee athlete and crew selection, manage training camps and regattas, and supervise equipment maintenance.

The successful applicant will manage daily club operations, coordinate race calendars with Western Cape Rowing (WCR) and RowSA, and represent Somerset College at various meetings. Strategic input into the long-term direction of the rowing programme and fostering positive relationships with neighbouring schools and rowing clubs are also expected. This is a comprehensive and demanding role for someone truly passionate about developing young rowers and maintaining a top-tier programme within the school’s values.

How to apply for this post

• Prepare a detailed letter of application.
• Compile your comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Secure three contactable references.
• Email all these documents confidentially to the Human Resources Officer at [email protected].
• Please note that submitting an application does not automatically guarantee an interview. The school reserves the right not to make an appointment. All personal information provided will be handled in strict accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

Institution details

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

Questions and answers for preferred candidates

• Q: What is the primary expectation for the Head Rowing Coach? A: The main expectation is to lead and develop the Somerset College Rowing programme, inspiring excellence both on and off the water, and to define the club’s direction, culture, and performance standards.
• Q: What kind of coaching experience is preferred for this role? A: Proven experience as a rowing coach, ideally at a competitive school or club level, is considered essential.
• Q: Are specific coaching qualifications a requirement? A: While a coaching qualification and/or a background in teaching jobs can be advantageous, relevant RowSA coaching accreditations and levels are required. FISA accreditation would be a significant advantage.
• Q: What administrative responsibilities are included in this position? A: The role involves managing budgets, scheduling practices and travel, procuring equipment, and recruiting student-athletes and assistant coaches, alongside general daily club operations.
• Q: How important is the academic success of student-athletes? A: It’s crucial. The successful candidate must be committed to a philosophy that prioritises academic success for student-athletes and be willing to help them excel both academically and competitively.
• Q: What is the typical coaching schedule? A: Coaching is required on four weekdays and Saturdays throughout the rowing season.
• Q: Are there any mandatory certifications required? A: Yes, you must possess and maintain current certifications in first aid, CPR, and AED use, with proof to be provided within 30 days of employment.
• Q: What is expected regarding safety and compliance? A: Ensuring all safeguarding standards are met and implemented is critical, and a thorough understanding of RowSA regulations and competitive rowing structures is necessary.
• Q: How important is engaging with stakeholders? A: Very important. You will need to communicate effectively with parents, collaborate with the Master in Charge, coordinate with Western Cape Rowing and RowSA, and foster positive relationships with other schools and clubs.
• Q: What document is an absolute prerequisite for applying for this Head Rowing Coach position? A: A valid Police Clearance Certificate, issued not more than one month prior to application, is a mandatory prerequisite.
• Q: Is having a background in teaching jobs essential for this role? A: While a teaching background can be beneficial for many roles including this one, it is listed as advantageous rather than an absolute requirement if other essential coaching qualifications are met.
• Q: Where can I find more opportunities for teaching jobs? A: You can find more teaching jobs opportunities by visiting this link.