HEAD ROWING COACH Job

Somerset College, a leading independent co-educational day and boarding school nestled in the picturesque Cape Winelands, is actively seeking a passionate and dynamic Head Rowing Coach to lead and further develop their highly successful rowing programme. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced individual to inspire excellence both on and off the water, commencing on Wednesday, 1 April 2026. This role is a vital addition to the school’s commitment to sports, offering a fulfilling path much like other impactful teaching jobs within an educational setting, where student development is paramount. Applications for this exciting position close on 26 November 2025.

Somerset College is a welcoming, stimulating centre of learning situated in the beautiful Cape Winelands. It offers schooling from Grade 000 to Matric-IEB and Cambridge AS and A-levels.

Detailed list of vacancy key details

• Name of school: Somerset College
• Position: Head Rowing Coach
• School type: Independent, co-educational day and boarding school
• Grades offered: Grade 000 to Matric-IEB and Cambridge AS and A-levels
• Founded: 1997
• Location: Cape Winelands, Western Cape, South Africa
• Commencement date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
• Closing date for applications: 26 November 2025
• Key responsibilities: High-level coaching and mentorship, programme direction, structured training, safeguarding, budget management, athlete recruitment, academic support emphasis, and parent communication.

Simple summary of the vacancy

Somerset College is looking for a Head Rowing Coach who will be responsible for leading, developing, and inspiring excellence within their rowing programme. The successful candidate will provide high-level coaching, mentorship, and development for both athletes and assistant coaches, ultimately shaping the overall direction, culture, and performance standards of the Somerset College Rowing Club. This involves delivering structured pre-season and in-season training programmes that focus on the holistic growth of students, coaching on four weekdays and Saturdays during the rowing season, and upholding the highest technical, physiological, and safety standards.

Beyond coaching, the role includes comprehensive programme management. This involves planning, developing, and administering all aspects of the rowing programme, from budget preparation and management, practice scheduling, travel arrangements, and equipment procurement, to the recruitment and selection of student-athletes, managers, and coaches in collaboration with the Master in Charge (MIC). A strong commitment to supporting student-athletes’ academic priorities and helping them succeed both in the classroom and in competitions is essential. The Head Coach will also be responsible for clearly communicating the rowing strategy and progress to the parent community.

Key responsibilities also extend to programme and performance management, including overseeing transparent athlete and crew selection, managing detailed performance records, planning training camps and regattas, and supervising equipment maintenance. Administration and stakeholder engagement are crucial, covering daily club operations, coordinating race calendars with Western Cape Rowing (WCR) and RowSA, representing the college at relevant meetings, and providing strategic input on the long-term direction of the programme. Maintaining positive relationships with neighbouring schools and clubs, alongside involvement in public relations and fundraising activities, is also part of the role.

Candidates should have proven experience as a rowing coach, preferably at a competitive school or club level, demonstrating strong leadership, organisational, and interpersonal skills. In-depth knowledge of rowing techniques, training methodologies, and safety standards is vital, as is familiarity with RowSA regulations and competitive structures. While not strictly required, a coaching qualification and/or a teaching background would be advantageous. Essential prerequisites include current certifications in first aid, CPR, and AED use, relevant RowSA coaching accreditations and levels (FISA accreditation is a bonus), and a valid Police Clearance Certificate not older than one month.

How to apply for this post

• Prepare a detailed letter of application.
• Update your Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Provide contact details for three professional references.
• Email all documents in confidence to the Human Resources Officer.
• The email address for applications is: [email protected]
• Please note that Somerset College is an equal opportunity employer and submission of an application does not guarantee an interview. The school also reserves the right not to make an appointment.
• By submitting your application, you acknowledge and accept the school’s POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act) disclaimer regarding the confidentiality and use of your personal information during the recruitment process.
• The deadline for applications is 26 November 2025.

Questions and answers for a potential candidate

• Q1: What is the primary focus of the Head Rowing Coach role?
  A: The core focus is to provide high-level coaching, mentorship, and development, while also strategically shaping the overall direction, culture, and performance standards of the Somerset College Rowing Club. It’s about holistic student growth alongside sporting excellence.
• Q2: What kind of coaching experience is most valued for this position?
  A: Proven experience as a rowing coach, particularly at a competitive school or club level, is preferred. The ability to lead and develop a successful programme is key.
• Q3: Are specific certifications or accreditations required?
  A: Yes, candidates must possess and maintain current certifications in first aid, CPR, and AED use. Relevant RowSA coaching accreditations and levels are essential, and FISA accreditation is considered advantageous. A valid Police Clearance Certificate is also a prerequisite.
• Q4: How important is the academic success of the student-athletes?
  A: It’s extremely important. The successful candidate must be committed to a philosophy that emphasises academic priorities, understanding how to guide, teach, and communicate to help student-athletes succeed both in the classroom and in the competitive arena.
• Q5: What administrative responsibilities should I expect?
  A: You will be involved in significant administrative tasks including budget preparation and management, practice scheduling, travel arrangements, procurement of equipment, and the recruitment of student-athletes, managers, and coaches in conjunction with the MIC.
• Q6: How will I interact with external rowing organisations?
  A: You will be responsible for coordinating race calendars with Western Cape Rowing (WCR) and RowSA, ensuring compliance with regulations, and representing Somerset College at WCR and RowSA meetings. Maintaining positive relationships with neighbouring schools and clubs is also crucial.
• Q7: Is a teaching background an advantage for this coaching job?
  A: While not strictly required, a coaching qualification and/or a teaching background will be considered advantageous, as it demonstrates an understanding of educational environments and student development.
• Q8: What soft skills are essential to excel in this role?
  A: Strong leadership, organisational, and interpersonal skills are vital for managing the programme, inspiring athletes, and effectively engaging with various stakeholders including students, staff, and parents. Excellent communication skills are also paramount.
• Q9: How can I best demonstrate my passion and vision for rowing in my application?
  A: Highlight your coaching philosophy, specific achievements in developing athletes and programmes, and outline your strategic vision for the Somerset College Rowing Club. Showcase how you align with the school’s values and objectives for holistic student development.
• Q10: What makes a candidate a ‘preferred’ choice for this vacancy?
  A: A preferred candidate will not only meet all the essential qualifications and experience but will also demonstrate proactive leadership, a deep commitment to athlete well-being, strategic insight into programme development, and an ability to foster a positive and high-performance culture within the club, all while maintaining excellent communication and organisational skills.

Institution details

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

You can find more details about this vacancy here: Head Rowing Coach vacancy source.