Head of PE

We are seeking an outstanding, enthusiastic and experienced Head of PE to lead and develop a thriving and successful Physical Education department.

Sport plays an important role in school life, with a strong emphasis on participation, achievement, enjoyment and personal development. Our broad PE curriculum builds on pupils' prior knowledge and develops their skills across a range of competitive sports, including football, cricket, netball, rounders, tennis and basketball, alongside athletics, gymnastics, badminton and volleyball.

Pupils benefit from excellent off-site sporting facilities, providing access to a wide range of activities and high-quality sporting opportunities. All pupils participate in a weekly two-hour PE session, with additional opportunities to represent the school in fixtures, competitions and extracurricular activities.

The department also delivers GCSE/BTEC PE at Key Stage 4 and coordinates the Duke of Edinburgh Award programme for Year 9 pupils, supporting the development of teamwork, resilience, leadership and independence.

The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining and further developing the department's strong sporting reputation, inspiring pupils to participate, achieve and develop a lifelong appreciation of physical activity.

Ideally, the successful candidate will also have the ability and experience to teach Health and Social Care up to GCSE level as an additional subject.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the PE department, setting high expectations for staff and pupils.
• Lead the development, implementation and delivery of a broad, balanced and inclusive PE curriculum.
• Ensure high standards of teaching, learning, progress and attainment across Key Stages 3 and 4.
• Monitor pupil progress and attainment, using assessment data to identify priorities and improve outcomes.
• Lead, manage and support departmental staff, promoting professional development and effective teamwork.
• Oversee curriculum planning, assessment, quality assurance and departmental resources.
• Ensure appropriate provision and support for pupils with SEND, disadvantaged pupils and the most able.
• Promote participation in extracurricular sport, organise fixtures and competitions, and accompany pupils to sporting events.
• Lead and support the continued development of the Duke of Edinburgh Award programme.
• Promote positive behaviour, inclusion, resilience and a culture of enjoyment and achievement through PE.
• Work collaboratively with senior leaders, parents, external providers and the wider community.

Person Specification

We are looking for a candidate who:

Qualifications and Experience

• Holds a degree or equivalent qualification in PE, Sports Science or a related subject.
• Holds QTS or an equivalent recognised teaching qualification.
• Has significant experience teaching PE at secondary level, including GCSE and/or BTEC.
• Has experience of leading, managing or developing a subject or department.
• Ideally has the ability to teach Health and Social Care up to GCSE level.
• Has relevant coaching qualifications and a current First Aid qualification (desirable).
• Has experience of examination assessment or moderation (desirable).

Skills and Personal Qualities

• Is an outstanding classroom practitioner with high expectations of themselves and others.
• Has the ability to motivate, inspire and engage pupils of all abilities.
• Demonstrates strong leadership, organisational and communication skills.
• Is committed to raising achievement and ensuring excellent outcomes for all pupils.
• Can lead, support and motivate colleagues effectively.
• Demonstrates a commitment to inclusion, safeguarding and pupil wellbeing.
• Has a passion for sport and a commitment to developing opportunities beyond the classroom.
• Is resilient, approachable, enthusiastic and committed to continuous professional development.
• Is willing to contribute positively to the wider life, values and ethos of the school.