Head of Hockey

Summary

We are delighted to announce an exciting opportunity for a Head of Hockey. Hockey at Hurst is ambitious, high-performing and values-led. Our programme spans the full breadth of the school — from our Prep School through to the Senior School and Sixth Form

Detail

We are delighted to announce an exciting opportunity for a Head of Hockey, a pivotal leadership role at the heart of Hurst Sport.

Hockey at Hurst is ambitious, high-performing and values-led. Our programme spans the full breadth of the school — from our Prep School through to the Senior School and Sixth Form — and combines elite performance with genuine inclusivity, giving every pupil the opportunity to flourish through the sport.

The Head of Hockey will take ownership of the long-term vision and development of Hurst Hockey, leading and coordinating coaching delivery across all ages and abilities, enhancing our reputation as one of the country's leading independent school hockey programmes, and mentoring a talented team of coaching staff.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an inspiring and forward-thinking hockey professional who is passionate about player development, staff leadership and raising standards in a thriving school sporting environment.

Coaching Philosophy

At Hurst, our coaching philosophy is rooted in the College’s core values of Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility, and our guiding behaviours: Work Hard, Do Good, and Engage. We believe in developing the whole athlete, not only technical skill and tactical understanding, but also character, confidence, and a lifelong love of sport. Our coaches are expected to:

• Model respect for teammates, opponents, officials, and the game itself.

• Build resilience by encouraging pupils to embrace challenge, learn from setbacks, and persevere.

• Promote responsibility by empowering pupils to take ownership of their development and contribute positively to their teams.

The Successful Candidate Will

Bring significant experience of developing and delivering hockey programmes, both on and off the pitch, across prep and senior school.

Demonstrate proven coaching experience from grassroots through to elite level, including working with high-performance players.

Lead and coordinate a whole-school coaching plan, organising weekend and mid-week fixtures for boys and girls at all levels.

Oversee the staffing and umpiring of teams and fixtures, and manage the line management of hockey staff.

Drive player development by tracking progression, identifying talent early and supporting access to County, Regional and national pathways.

Plan and deliver off-season and pre-season programmes, skill development sessions and pre-season training for all abilities.

Mentor elite performers through our PASS programme and develop and run the 'Hurst Masterclass' series.

Develop feeder school relationships and support outreach coaching sessions with local preparatory and primary schools.

Organise and lead Hockey Tours as required, and host and run tournaments on campus.

Promote Hurst Hockey through social media and uphold our reputation as a leading independent school in fixtures and competitions.

Maintain excellent communication with pupils, parents, colleagues and school leaders, and uphold high standards of safeguarding, discipline and confidentiality.

Contribute to the wider life of the College with enthusiasm and commitment.

Desirable Attributes

Level 3 Hockey Coaching Qualification (or equivalent, or willingness to achieve within 12 months of appointment).

Experience of participating in high-level club or international hockey.

Sport-related degree or equivalent professional experience.

Experience in dealing with England Hockey and national talent development structures.

Familiarity with elite coaching environments and high-performance sport.

A desire and ability to work towards advanced or specialist coaching awards.

In Return, We Offer

A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

Complimentary dining during term time.

Membership of the College's contributory pension scheme.

Access to high-quality facilities, equipment and professional development opportunities.

A collaborative, ambitious and supportive sports department that values innovation, wellbeing and professional growth.

Free on-site parking and access to exceptional College amenities.

Working at Hurst

Hurst is one of Britain's leading independent schools, offering a vibrant and supportive environment for both pupils and staff. With almost 1,300 pupils across our Senior and Prep Schools, we combine academic ambition with a strong sense of community and a rich co-curricular programme.

Hurst is a place of genuine momentum. From the classroom to the sports field, and the theatre to the boarding house, life here is rich, varied, and relentlessly rewarding.

Ours is a community that sets its sights on excellence - not as a destination, but as a daily habit. The people who thrive here are those who bring the same ambition, resilience, and commitment that we ask of our pupils.

We don't just teach; we coach, mentor, direct, lead, and inspire, often all in the same day! The role you play here extends far beyond your core responsibilities, and that's precisely what makes it so fulfilling. If you're someone who is energised by variety, motivated by challenge, and genuinely excited by the opportunity to shape young people both inside and outside the classroom then you'll feel right at home.

You’ll enjoy working in a stunning rural setting while remaining well-connected. We're just 20 minutes from the city and beaches of Brighton & Hove, and London is under an hour away by train.

This isn't just a job. It's a commitment to something bigger. For the right person, there is nowhere more exciting to be.

Hurstpierpoint College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including an online presence and adverse media review, checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service