Paddle UK is the governing body for Paddlesports. We have had many advances in our sport and paddling now covers a wide range of interests and passions as a sport and a leisure activity for all. We want to support and provide opportunities for everyone to enjoy and realise their potential within all aspects of paddling regardless of their age, background or ability.
Salary range: £15,960.00 per annum (FTE £26,600 per annum)
Department: Talent Programme Reports to: England National Talent Coach (Central/Northern) Location: Paddle UK Offices, National Water Sports Centre, Adbolton Lane, Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham, NG12 2LU
Working Pattern: Part time, 22.2 hours per week, with regular mornings and weekend work and domestic and international travel required.
Closing date: 1 June 2026
Interview dates: Week commencing 8 June 2026
The Role
In collaboration with the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University the University Performance Coach is a critical part of the England Slalom Talent Programme and will be based at the Paddle UK Offices in Nottingham.
This part time coaching role will play a crucial role in supporting the development and performance of identified university student athletes from Nottingham partner universities and performance focused Holme Pierrepont Canoe Club (HPPCC) paddlers in order to optimise performance delivery at identified British University and College Sport (BUCS) events and GB national team selection.
This role holder will also lead on the structure of England Whitewater training camps and support the preparation and delivery of identified Slalom School Programme camps.
This is a thrilling chance to work with athletes aspiring for high performance, coordinating and delivering coaching support, focused on enhancing student athletes’ enjoyment, development and performance and helping them achieve their absolute potential.
Provide a programme of training and coaching support for identified athletes ensuring quality coach delivery and provision that meets the individual athlete and wider group needs.
Support preparation opportunities and provide coaching delivery at both Canoe Slalom and White Water Racing BUCS events and U23 GB Team selection events in order to maximise athlete event performances.
Support the planning and delivery of the Canoe Slalom BUCS events when hosted by Nottingham Universities in order to support event delivery.
Support the university’s sport scholarship team in the identification and recruitment of talented student athletes to partner universities.
Delivery of quality coaching provision to Holme Pierrepont CC slalom members within performance group sessions.
Lead on developing a calendar of England Whitewater training camp provision and work with the Canoe Slalom Junior Pathway Lead and contracted coaches to ensure provision for these camps is covered.
Support the delivery of Slalom Schools, working closely with the Regional Pathway Coach and other members of the Talent team.
Work alongside, and in conjunction with, university performance support staff to help support the delivery of the athletes training programme and performance goals.
Attend regular review and planning meetings in order to best support provision and ensure successful fulfilment of the Nottingham University Partnership agreement.
About You
You’ll be someone who has a passion for canoe slalom performance coaching. You enjoy developing paddlers on a performance trajectory, are able to juggle priorities and keep complex programmes running smoothly.
Essential Skills and Experience
National coaching qualification, with a minimum Canoe Slalom Coach Award or equivalent
Has excellent technical knowledge, performance planning skills and a deep understanding of the components of Canoe Slalom Performance and long term athlete development principles.
Ability to develop, deliver and modify, as required, individualised training and preparation programmes to improve the performance of athletes targeting finals at age group World Championships.
Strong leadership and communication skills with a clear ability to inspire and motivate.
Team player and willing to embrace an integrated and collaborative approach to talent development.
Able to deal with conflict and to confront issues and challenges in a timely and appropriate manner.
Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and a diverse work portfolio.
Desirable Skills and Experience
Proven track record of operating at Junior/U23 World and European Championship level.
Awareness of safeguarding procedures in working with children and young people.
Has a degree level of education in a relevant subject
Has a Canoe Slalom Performance Coach award.
Take a collaborative, team-focused approach
Build positive relationships with partners, stakeholders and volunteers
Show initiative and a ‘can do’ attitude
Stay calm and adaptable in a changing environment
Take ownership of their development and performance
Benefits
25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (Pro rota for part time employees)
Dress for your day
Free onsite parking and bike storage
Company pension scheme
Employee benefits platform (including Bike to Work, Health and Wellbeing and discounts)
#J-18808-Ljbffr…