Head of PE (Secondary) (AY 2026/27)
About This Role
We are looking for a dedicated and passionate Head of Secondary Physical Education to join our team starting August 2026.
The Head of Secondary PE will take on both academic and operational leadership for Physical Education in our Middle and Secondary schools.
This role assists the Director of PE in delivering exceptional academic PE, fostering competitive sports, ensuring students are prepared for examinations, and promoting overall student wellbeing. The successful candidate will oversee the execution of the curriculum, manage assessment processes, and create enrichment opportunities in Secondary PE, adhering to both British curriculum standards and UAE regulatory requirements (ADEK and MoE).
Key Responsibilities:
1. Phase Leadership:
• Oversee the implementation of the Secondary PE curriculum for Years 7-13.
• Ensure a seamless transition from general physical education to specialized academic PE pathways.
• Collaborate with the Director of PE to align Primary and Secondary PE offerings.
• Assist the Director of PE in upholding high standards in competitive sports and examination classes.
• Facilitate Secondary PE staff meetings and ensure the consistent application of agreed-upon actions.
• Foster a culture that encourages participation, enjoyment, and physical wellbeing.
• Supervise curriculum implementation and maintain inspection-ready documentation.
2. Teach Like a GEM (TLAG) Departmental Support:
• Assist the TLAG Champion in applying the TLAG Framework across Secondary PE, ensuring shared expectations and consistent practices.
• Advocate for high-quality coaching and theoretical instruction in examination classes.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of TLAG implementation through lesson observations, planning assessments, and student input.
• Guarantee uniformity in feedback, modeling solutions, and examination techniques.
• Ensure departmental curriculum aligns with the National Curriculum for England and exam board objectives, while being accessible through adaptive instruction catering to diverse physical abilities.
3. Curriculum and Assessment:
• Coordinate PE schemes of work for Middle and Secondary schools to ensure skill development is progressive.
• Align curriculum planning with Cambridge iGCSE PE (0413).
• Ensure all theory and practical assessment requirements are fulfilled.
• Supervise moderation and standardization of practical assessments.
• Keep current with examination board requirements.
• Assist with accurate data entry and reporting during school assessment cycles.
4. Data, Standards, and Student Achievement:
• Monitor academic performance in iGCSE PE.
• Analyze data trends to implement targeted interventions.
• Provide guidance for students choosing PE academically during Options at Years 9 and 11.
• Aid in identifying and nurturing sporting talent.
• Promote healthy lifestyles and positive engagement with physical activity.
5. Sport, Enrichment, and Competition:
• Organize fixtures, tournaments, and competitive sports activities.
• Encourage high levels of student involvement in Secondary.
• Support the development of elite pathways when appropriate, in collaboration with the Director of PE Whole School.
6. Operational and Safety Oversight:
• Ensure safe usage of facilities and equipment.
• Complete risk assessments for all activities and events.
• Collaborate with the Director of PE Whole School to coordinate Secondary PE timetables and staff assignments.
7. Compliance, Safeguarding, and Inclusion:
• Uphold and exemplify the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection.
• Ensure inclusive participation for all, regardless of ability or background.
• Maintain accurate and compliant departmental documentation in accordance with school, ADEK, and MoE regulations.
• Assist the Director of PE Whole School in aligning departmental practices with overall school policies and regulatory standards.
• Ensure that risk assessments are completed and safeguarding policies are adhered to during enrichment activities.
Required Qualifications, Experience & Skills:
• Education/teaching degree OR a Bachelor’s degree with a teaching qualification/license in the subject area.
• Leadership training or certification (NPQML, NPQSL, or equivalent) is preferred.
• At least 3 years of teaching experience in secondary education.
• Demonstrable leadership experience in a secondary phase (e.g., Head of Department, Phase Leader) for a minimum of one year.
• Proven success in enhancing teaching, learning, and student outcomes.
• Proficient in coaching, mentoring, and improving staff performance.
• Familiarity with the use of ICT in educational settings to support teaching and learning.
• Strong grasp of curriculum, assessment, and pastoral systems.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to analyze data and promote evidence-based school improvements.
• Committed to safeguarding, wellbeing, and inclusive practices.
• Adaptable, collaborative, and capable of leading change with confidence.
GEMS Education is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is mandatory for all appointments.