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Job description

This Development Officer position aims to develop a coaching and recruitment partnership between local schools and Michael Davitt GAC, known as ‘the Club’. The role is pivotal in delivering and developing Gaelic games within each of the identified schools and increasing the number of young people, boys and girls, joining the Club. The job role and activities of the Club Schools’ GAA Development Officer are varied, blending hands-on coaching and programme delivery with strategic planning, administration, and relationship management.

Responsibilities

• The primary activity is planning and delivering age-appropriate Gaelic games coaching sessions and skill development initiatives, both during and outside of school hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Building and sustaining strong relationships between feeder primary schools and the Club, to create and ensure a seamless player pathway from school to Club.
• Developing strategies and programmes to grow the number of pupils playing Gaelic games, with a focus on how to improve player retention rates.
• Emphasising the role of Gaelic games and physical activity in enhancing the overall health and well-being of children and young people.
• Working with the Club’s and any school's existing coaches and volunteers to improve their qualifications and ensure high coaching standards are maintained through courses and workshops.
• Providing access to meaningful and competitive sporting events and inter-school leagues. Organising and assisting with the delivery of Club development camps during school holidays (e.g. Easter, Summer and Halloween).
• Acting as the main contact point for all school and Club age-relevant Gaelic games activities, producing promotional materials, updating notice boards and attending relevant School and Club meetings.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Demonstratable knowledge of GAA games, as well as the latest coaching initiatives and programmes, e.g. GAA Future Leaders, new playing rules at various codes, and player development pathways.
• A minimum of the Award 1 GAA Coaching Qualification. The ability to plan, lead, and deliver engaging, high-quality coaching sessions at each code, appropriate for various age groups and ability levels.
• Excellent written, verbal and presentational communication skills. Excellent relationship skills to handle challenging situations. Ability to work independently, applying own initiative, and as part of a team.
• The ability to motivate and influence others to participate, volunteer and coach is critical, alongside leadership qualities for managing projects and staff.
• This role is subject to an AccessNI Vetting Check
• Ability to manage multiple, coaching schedules and deadlines with ability to work well under pressure and get things done.
• Access to a form of transport that will enable the job holder to fulfil the post responsibilities in full.

Desirable Skills

• Knowledge of local catchment area in West Belfast.

Further Information

Work Time: Flexible dependent upon time of year and school/club activities. This Club Schools’ GAA Development Officer is a full-time post (minimum 37 hours per week). However, flexibility is essential. The role requires a level of flexibility in line with school and Club arrangements to maximise the achievement of the purpose and objectives of the job. A standard 9am to 5pm schedule is not typical. The role will involve attendance at training sessions, matches, meetings and events outside of standard school hours, including evenings and weekends. The hours may vary depending on the different coaching and games demands during competition periods versus off-season development phases. Club Cul Camps may also require specific hours of planning and attendance. The work schedule is primarily dictated by the school operational requirements and Club activities, such as after-school coaching or games, evening coaching sessions and school/Club blitzes or tournaments. In summary, while there is a set number of contracted hours, officers must be prepared for a work schedule that accommodates the demands of a vibrant school and Club sports calendar.