New volunteer coaches
Oxford Harlequins Minis and Juniors takes the safety and welfare of its players very seriously. If you would like to become a coach at Oxford Harlequins RFC Minis and Juniors, you need to apply in writing using the club application form. An application needs to be accompanied by the names of two people who can provide a written character reference, their references and also a completed Criminal Records Bureau check application form. To start the process, please complete the following documents:
Coaches application form | reference names form | OHRFC reference request
and return them to the club’s Chairman or Welfare Officer - see the Contact page for details. You will then be given a CRB application form to complete (a guide on how to do this is here: how to complete CRB ). Once all the paperwork has been completed in line with RFU policies and to the club’s satisfaction, the club will welcome you to its ranks of volunteer coaching assistants.
It is highly recommended that each volunteer subsequently undertakes an appropriate RFU coaching qualification such as an RFU Tag, Level 1 or Level 2 course in line with the age group being coached. For Minis, up to and including Under 8s, an RFU Tag coaching qualification is sufficient. For under 9s through to Under 12s, an RFU Level 1 coaching certificate is recommended and for Under 13s and older, each age group should have at least one RFU Level 2-qualified coach. Within reason, the club will bear the costs of appropriate and recognized RFU coaching courses.
Child Welfare
Oxford Harlequins RFC Minis and Juniors is bound by the RFU Welfare policy and recommends that each qualified coach also takes the RFU Safeguarding and Protecting Young People Course (SPYP). In addition, the club’s Child Welfare Policy is stated here.
Coach development
The development of coaching standards is a recognized goal of Oxford Harlequins Minis and Juniors and as coaches grow in experience, the club is committed to support them in acquiring further RFU-recognized qualifications as a method of enhancing player development. Through the Oxford Rugby partnership, the club also runs its own internal coach development sessions coordinated by the Coaching Coordinator and facilitated by experienced coaches in the Oxford Academy or the Oxford Rugby Partnership. To discuss this further, please contact the Club Coaching Coordinator (see the Contacts page for contact details).
The RFU Continuum
Oxford Harlequins RFC Minis and Juniors adheres to the RFU Continuum. Coaches should ensure that they are familiar with the current laws of the game for the age group they are coaching.
Session planning
In planning your coaching to focus on player and team development, session planning is a tried and tested method. Regular completion of session plans provides safety, continuity, focus and improved player development in rugby coaching.