Head of Physical Education

The British International School Jeddah (BISJ) is a renowned co-educational international institution in Saudi Arabia, boasting a distinguished 48-year legacy of excellence. The school fosters a vibrant and inclusive educational atmosphere, complemented by a comprehensive co-curricular program and a remarkable track record of exceptional student achievements, with a strong focus on wellbeing.

Join a community where students are encouraged to grow and succeed. Here, learners are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and attributes necessary for lifelong success. Our innovative teaching, grounded in a robust British curriculum, creates an engaging environment for both educators and students.

We are in search of an energetic and inspiring Head of Physical Education (PE) to become a part of our Secondary Section.

This position presents an exciting chance to promote excellence in physical education while providing strategic leadership to a dynamic and high-achieving department. The successful candidate will also be instrumental in enhancing students’ lives outside the classroom through exceptional wellbeing initiatives, competitive sports, and inclusive co-curricular activities.

Key Responsibilities:

As the Head of PE, you will concentrate on departmental leadership, curriculum oversight, and maintaining high standards within the discipline. Your duties will encompass, but are not limited to:

• Strategic Leadership: Inspire, lead, and manage the PE Department staff, cultivating a culture of high achievement and continuous professional development.

• Curriculum Oversight: Ensure the development, implementation, and thorough evaluation of the PE curriculum across all Secondary Key Stages aligns with the school’s objectives and promotes outstanding student outcomes.

• Academic & Athletic Excellence: Foster ongoing improvement in teaching and coaching practices, utilizing data-driven strategies to support all students in reaching their full potential in PE and school sports.

• Resource & Facility Management: Effectively manage the departmental budget, sports equipment, and facilities while upholding stringent health and safety standards.

• Promoting Physical Literacy: Advocate for an interest in sports, healthy lifestyles, and physical literacy throughout the school community through innovative classroom practices and an engaging, competitive co-curricular program.

• Pastoral Care: Prioritize student wellbeing within the department, ensuring a nurturing, inclusive, and supportive environment for every learner.

• School Leadership: Actively and constructively contribute to the broader strategic leadership of the Secondary Section as a key Head of Department.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education or a related discipline (required).

• At least 2 years of teaching experience in PE, preferably in an international or British curriculum setting.

• Proven and successful leadership experience within an educational environment (e.g., Head of Department, Second in Charge, or a similar role).

• Experience teaching GCSE, IGCSE, A-Level, or IB Diploma English is highly desirable.

• Excellent command of the English language, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• A demonstrated commitment to professional development, collaboration, and supporting student success.

• A strong alignment with the values that reflect our BISJ vision and mission.

Preferred Attributes:

• Passionate about holistic education and dedicated to inspiring students through creative and engaging teaching methods.

• A collaborative team member with a proactive, adaptable approach and a solid work ethic.

• Committed to continuous professional growth and contributing positively to a supportive school culture.

Why Join BISJ?

• Be part of a leading international school with a diverse and motivated staff and student community.

• Experience the opportunity to thrive in a culturally rich international setting that celebrates diversity and fosters respectful, empathetic global citizens.

• Benefit from a world-class professional development program featuring leading global experts, supported by a generous CPD budget.

• Enjoy a supportive and collegial staff environment along with an attractive remuneration and benefits package.

• Live and work in the vibrant city of Jeddah, recently recognized as the second-best city for quality of life in the Arab world.

• Join a prestigious British international school with over 48 years of excellence, blending strong British educational values with a broad international perspective.

If you are a passionate and experienced leader committed to academic excellence and student enrichment, we would be delighted to hear from you.

BISJ is committed to safer recruitment and child safeguarding, in accordance with UK Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines, recommendations from The International Task Force On Child Protection, and other international standards. We expect all staff and volunteers to uphold this commitment. Successful candidates will undergo comprehensive background checks, including written and verbal references; qualification verification; identity and police checks, including overseas checks.

Application Process

We welcome applications from candidates worldwide, including those currently in Saudi Arabia (local hire) and international applicants looking to relocate (overseas hire).

Overseas Applicants

All applications from overseas should be submitted via the TES website.

Local Hire Applicants

If you are currently living in Jeddah with a National ID or valid Iqama, please fill out the application form: Local Hire Application Form.

Applicants should address and explain any employment gaps, providing relevant details where necessary.

Candidates are required to submit three professional references, including their most recent Head Teacher or Principal. References will be requested for shortlisted applicants prior to the interview, in line with BISJ’s safer recruitment practices.

The school reserves the right to appoint a suitable candidate before the official closing date.

Data Protection (PDPL)

In compliance with the Saudi Arabian Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL), BISJ will handle applicants’ personal information securely and confidentially, using it solely for recruitment purposes and sharing it only with authorized individuals involved in the selection process.