HEAD ROWING COACH Job

Somerset College, a leading independent, co-educational day and boarding school in the beautiful Cape Winelands, is inviting applications for an experienced and dynamic Head Rowing Coach. This exciting role, commencing on Wednesday, 1 April 2026, involves leading and developing a successful rowing programme, inspiring excellence in student-athletes, and overseeing all aspects from high-level coaching to programme administration. If you are a passionate rowing coach with strong leadership skills and a commitment to holistic student growth, this could be an excellent opportunity for you to contribute to a vibrant school community. Applications, including a letter, CV, and three references, must be submitted by 26 November 2025.

Detailed list of vacancy key details

• Name of the school: Somerset College
• School type: Leading independent, co-educational day and boarding school
• School offerings: From Grade 000 to Matric-IEB and Cambridge AS and A-levels
• Founded: 1997
• Position: Head Rowing Coach
• Commencement date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026
• Closing date for applications: 26 November 2025
• Location: Bredell Road, Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa
• Email for applications: [email protected]
• School Website: http://www.somersetcollege.org
• Vacancy source link: Head Rowing Coach Vacancy

Simple summary of the vacancy

Somerset College, a well-established independent school nestled in the scenic Cape Winelands, is looking to appoint a dedicated Head Rowing Coach. This individual will be instrumental in guiding and enhancing the school’s successful rowing programme, fostering a culture of excellence among both athletes and assistant coaches. The role demands high-level coaching expertise, a commitment to developing student-athletes holistically, and strong administrative skills.

The successful candidate will be responsible for providing expert coaching, mentorship, and development, shaping the overall direction and performance standards of the Rowing Club. This includes designing and implementing structured pre-season and in-season training programmes, coaching on four weekdays and Saturdays during the rowing season, and upholding the highest technical, physiological, and safety standards. Safeguarding students is paramount in this role.

Beyond coaching, the Head Rowing Coach will oversee the planning, development, and administration of the entire programme, encompassing budget management, scheduling, travel logistics, equipment procurement, and the recruitment of student-athletes, managers, and coaches in collaboration with the Master in Charge (MIC). A key aspect of the role is a philosophy that prioritises the academic success of student-athletes, requiring the ability to guide, teach, and communicate effectively, understanding the demands placed on them both in the classroom and in competition. Communication with parents regarding rowing strategy and progress is also essential.

The role extends to programme and performance management, involving transparent athlete and crew selection, meticulous performance record-keeping, and the efficient planning and management of training camps and regattas. Equipment supervision, from rigging to maintenance, falls under this remit, as does collaboration with the MIC on coach recruitment, evaluation, and remuneration. In terms of administration and stakeholder engagement, the Head Rowing Coach will manage daily club operations, coordinate race calendars with Western Cape Rowing (WCR) and RowSA, and represent Somerset College at official meetings. Strategic input into the long-term vision of the rowing programme, maintaining positive relationships with other schools and clubs, and involvement in public relations and fundraising activities are also expected.

Candidates should possess proven experience as a rowing coach, preferably at a competitive school or club level, coupled with strong leadership, organisational, and interpersonal skills. In-depth knowledge of rowing techniques, training methodologies, and safety standards, along with familiarity with RowSA regulations, is crucial. While a coaching qualification is advantageous, a teaching background would also be beneficial. Prerequisites include current certifications in first aid, CPR, and AED (to be provided within 30 days of employment), relevant RowSA coaching accreditations (FISA accreditation is a plus), and a valid Police Clearance Certificate not older than one month.

How to apply for this post

• Prepare a comprehensive letter of application.
• Ensure your Curriculum Vitae (CV) is up-to-date and detailed.
• Include contact details for three professional references.
• Email these documents confidentially to the Human Resources Officer at: [email protected]
• Submit your application before the closing date of 26 November 2025.

Questions and answers for a potential candidate

Here are some questions a potential candidate might have, along with answers to help you prepare and become a preferred candidate:

• Q: What kind of coaching experience is Somerset College looking for?
  A: The college is seeking candidates with proven experience as a rowing coach, ideally at a competitive school or club level, demonstrating a strong track record in athlete development and programme leadership.
• Q: Are there specific coaching qualifications required for this role?
  A: Yes, you must have relevant RowSA coaching accreditations and levels. FISA accreditation is advantageous. Additionally, a coaching qualification or a teaching background would be beneficial.
• Q: What essential certifications must I possess?
  A: You must hold and maintain current certifications in first aid, CPR, and AED use, with proof provided within 30 days of employment. A valid Police Clearance Certificate (not older than 1 month) is also a prerequisite.
• Q: How does the school integrate academic priorities with athletic commitments?
  A: Somerset College emphasizes academic priorities for student-athletes. The successful candidate must understand the demands placed on students both in the classroom and in competition, and be willing to guide and help them succeed in both areas.
• Q: What is the expected coaching schedule during the rowing season?
  A: The role requires coaching on four weekdays and Saturdays during the rowing season, ensuring excellent technical, physiological, and safety standards are maintained.
• Q: Will I be involved in the broader rowing community and administrative bodies?
  A: Absolutely. You will be expected to coordinate race calendars with Western Cape Rowing (WCR) and RowSA, ensuring compliance with regulations, and represent Somerset College at WCR and RowSA meetings.
• Q: What leadership and interpersonal skills are crucial for this position?
  A: Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills are vital. You should be able to inspire excellence, mentor athletes and assistant coaches, and maintain positive relationships with various stakeholders, including parents, other schools, and clubs.
• Q: How will I contribute to the long-term vision and strategy of the rowing programme?
  A: You will provide strategic input on the long-term direction and alignment of the rowing programme with the school’s values and objectives, and potentially be involved in public relations, fundraising, and promotional activities.
• Q: What level of knowledge is expected regarding rowing techniques and safety?
  A: An in-depth knowledge of rowing techniques, training methodologies, and safety standards is essential. Familiarity with RowSA regulations and competitive rowing structures is also required.
• Q: What should I include in my application to stand out?
  A: Highlight your proven track record in coaching competitive rowing, your leadership experience, and how you foster holistic student development. Emphasise your understanding of the balance between academic and athletic demands, and clearly list all relevant certifications and accreditations.

Institution details

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

Looking for more career opportunities? Explore various teaching jobs and other roles in education.