Head of PE (Secondary) (AY 2026/27) - GEMS Cambridge International School, Abu Dhabi

We are looking for an exceptional and driven Head of Secondary Physical Education to become part of our school community starting in August 2026. In this role, the Head of Secondary PE will provide both academic and operational leadership for Physical Education within the Middle and Secondary schools. This position aids the Director of PE in delivering high-quality academic PE, ensuring competitive sports opportunities, preparing students for examinations, and supporting their wellbeing. The individual will be responsible for coordinating curriculum delivery, overseeing assessments, and providing enrichment opportunities in Secondary PE while adhering to British curriculum standards and UAE regulatory frameworks (ADEK and MoE).

Responsibilities:

1. Phase Leadership:
• Oversee the Secondary PE curriculum implementation for students in Years 7-13.
• Ensure smooth progression from general physical education to academic PE pathways.
• Assist the Director of PE in fostering coherence between Primary and Secondary PE offerings.
• Aid the Director of PE in upholding high standards in competitive sports and examination groups.
• Facilitate Secondary PE staff meetings, ensuring consistency in the execution of agreed upon actions.
• Encourage a positive environment focused on participation, enjoyment, and physical wellbeing.
• Supervise curriculum implementation and keep documentation prepared for inspections.

2. Teach like a GEM (TLAG) Departmental Support:
• Collaborate with the TLAG Champion to apply the TLAG Framework across Secondary PE, ensuring shared expectations and consistent practices.
• Encourage high-quality coaching skills and theoretical instruction for examination classes.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of TLAG implementation through lesson observations, planning assessments, and student feedback.
• Guarantee consistent feedback, demonstrate worked solutions, and refine exam techniques.
• Ensure departmental curriculum aligns with the National Curriculum for England and examination board objectives, making it accessible through adaptive instruction that meets diverse physical abilities and needs.

3. Curriculum and Assessment:
• Coordinate PE schemes of work for Middle and Secondary schools to promote progressive skill development.
• Align curriculum planning with the Cambridge iGCSE PE (0413) specifications.
• Ensure compliance with both theory and practical assessment requirements.
• Oversee the moderation and standardisation of practical assessments.
• Stay current with examination board requirements.
• Support accurate data entry and reporting during school assessment cycles.

4. Data, Standards and Student Achievement:
• Monitor academic performance in iGCSE PE.
• Analyze data trends and implement targeted intervention strategies as needed.
• Assist with pathway guidance for students interested in pursuing PE academically during Options selections in Years 9 and 11.
• Aid in identifying and fostering sporting talent.
• Promote healthy lifestyles and encourage positive attitudes towards physical activity.

5. Sport, Enrichment and Competition:
• Organize fixtures, tournaments, and competitive sports offerings.
• Encourage high levels of student participation across Secondary.
• Support elite pathway development in collaboration with the Director of PE Whole School when appropriate.

6. Operational and Safety Oversight:
• Support the safe use of facilities and equipment.
• Ensure that risk assessments are completed for all activities and events.
• Collaborate with the Director of PE Whole School to coordinate Secondary PE timetables and staff deployment.

7. Compliance, Safeguarding and Inclusion:
• Demonstrate and uphold the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection.
• Ensure inclusive participation for all students, regardless of ability or background.
• Maintain accurate and compliant departmental documentation according to school, ADEK, and MoE requirements.
• Assist the Director of PE Whole School in aligning departmental practices with school-wide policies and regulatory expectations.
• Ensure risk assessments are conducted and safeguarding policies are adhered to during enrichment activities.