Academy Accommodation Coordinator

About the team

The Player Development Team at Sunderland AFC is focused on helping young people develop as athletes and as individuals. Its aim is to offer a strong educational and personal development structure that supports youth players in becoming capable players and responsible young adults.

Role overview

This part-time Academy Accommodation Coordinator position gives you the chance to support the wellbeing and day-to-day care of talented academy players. You will work 25 hours per week, taking responsibility for the smooth running of the Host Parent Programme and helping ensure that players are placed in safe, supportive, and well-managed homes.

The role involves developing trusted relationships with host families, players, and parents or guardians, arranging placements, carrying out welfare checks, and providing continued support throughout the season. You will also work closely with the wider team to maintain high standards around care, safeguarding, and compliance.

Key duties

You will help recruit, train, and support host parents, while also organising meetings and development sessions during the season. The role requires a hands-on approach to player care, strong coordination, and a commitment to creating a positive living environment for young players.

What the club is looking for

The ideal candidate will have experience supporting young people, families, welfare, safeguarding, education, or player care. You should be well organised, attentive to detail, comfortable handling different stakeholders, and confident working independently while managing priorities effectively.

Strong communication skills, a solid working knowledge of Microsoft Office, a full UK driving licence, and the willingness to travel for home visits are essential. A clear commitment to safeguarding children and young people is also required.

Experience in elite sport, football academies, education, or residential care would be beneficial, as would familiarity with academy player care and safeguarding expectations. Previous involvement in accommodation coordination or welfare programme management, along with relevant qualifications, would strengthen your application.

Additional information

An Enhanced DBS check arranged through Sunderland AFC is required.

This role is based on site at the Academy of Light.

Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK, as visa sponsorship is not available for this position.