Head of Rugby

Clifton College is seeking an exceptional and ambitious Head of Rugby to drive and enhance its rugby programme for both boys and girls to ensure the College continues to be recognised at a national level. 

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and inspirational coach to shape and develop rugby across the College, from Pre-Prep through to Upper School, building on a proud tradition of excellence while ensuring every pupil benefits from the values, enjoyment, and opportunities the game provides.

Working closely with High Performance Rugby Manager and reporting to the Director of Sport, the successful candidate will lead a thriving and ambitious programme that combines elite performance with a genuine “rugby for all” philosophy, ensuring accessible and meaningful participation opportunities. 

Rugby is a flagship sport at Clifton College and plays a central role in school life. The College has a strong record of success nationally, including winning the 2024 SOCS Daily Mail School Trophy, while also delivering broad participation opportunities and a growing girls’ rugby programme. Strong partnerships with Bristol Bears and other professional academies further support player development and progression.

We are looking for a leader who can inspire pupils and staff alike, someone with the vision, energy, and expertise to continue evolving a distinctive Clifton Rugby identity and culture. The successful candidate will be passionate about developing young people through sport and committed to creating an inclusive, engaging, and high-performing environment where every pupil can thrive.

Clifton College is part of Clifton College Education Group, and is a leading independent day and boarding school educating over 1,200 pupils aged 3 to 18 years. The College offers day education, flexi and full boarding and is a proudly inclusive and supportive community, with over 40 nationalities represented.

Founded in 1862, the College provides an exceptional all-round education that successfully combines a rich heritage with modern state-of-the-art facilities. Located in one of the most beautiful suburbs of the vibrant city of Bristol, we are proud to offer the finest all-round education based on the highest academic and pastoral standards, and a diverse range of first-class co-curricular activities.

For further details regarding this role, please see the attached job description.

Please note that we can only accept applications via our vacancy website application form (which will also allow you to attach your CV or any other supporting information).

Closing date: 30th May 2026

Early applications are encouraged, as the College reserves the right to interview and possibly appoint candidates before the closing date.

Clifton College is committed to creating and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce that better reflects our community. Applications are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage / civil partnerships. We particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups. Please note, we require candidates to be at least 18 years of age for all roles apart from our lifeguard positions where candidates are required to be 16+ with the relevant qualifications.

We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are required to share this commitment. Safeguarding is underpinned by a range of policies and procedures which encourage and promote safe working practice across the College. We make sure that all our staff are trained and supervised to a high standard so they can provide safe, effective practice.

All posts are subject to a safer recruitment process which includes the disclosure of criminal records and barring checks, scrutiny of employment history, robust referencing and other vetting checks. Due to the nature of the role, you will need to complete an enhanced criminal record disclosure (DBS check) and undergo our pre-employment screening. As a regulated sector we are required to ask for references prior to interview, by applying for this role you are consenting for us to contact your referees. Please note that this  role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 therefore you will be asked to disclose all previous convictions not exempt under amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.