Teacher of Physical Education - August 2026 (Female Only)

Downe House Riyadh is on the lookout for an enthusiastic and highly qualified Teacher of Physical Education to become a part of our expanding team starting August 2026.

The ideal candidate will motivate, challenge, and assist students in reaching their maximum potential while making a positive contribution to both the academic and pastoral aspects of the school.

We invite applications from reflective and innovative educators who are eager to make a significant difference within a nurturing and ambitious educational setting.

About Cognita:

Cognita stands as a global leader in independent education. Established in 2004, we have grown into a community of over 100 schools across 16 countries—including Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East—serving more than 85,000 students. Though each of our schools has its unique strengths, our shared mission is to cultivate an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world.’

At Cognita, we recognize that every student is unique. We celebrate their individual personalities and strengths, supporting them academically, socially, and emotionally, regardless of their location or starting point. We safeguard their distinctive qualities while providing rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. Students become part of something larger, ensuring they receive an education that is truly world-class.

About Downe House Riyadh:

Since its opening in September 2022, Downe House Riyadh has been delivering a premier British curriculum in collaboration with one of the UK's most prestigious girls' independent schools. Downe House UK has a century-long history of excellence and consistently ranks among the top five all-girls' schools in the country.

Situated in the esteemed Aqeeq neighborhood in northern Riyadh, the school offers a British curriculum that is enhanced by Downe House UK's traditions and expertise. The curriculum is thoughtfully adapted for Saudi Arabia, ensuring that girls excel in Arabic and Islamic Studies alongside core subjects.

The strong partnership between the Riyadh and UK schools is reflected in both philosophy and practice. Central to the Downe House ethos is the individual: every girl’s strengths, challenges, and interests are acknowledged, with tailored pathways designed to foster confidence and success.

Downe House Riyadh provides:

• A top-tier British education leading to IGCSEs and A Levels

• Academic excellence in girls' education

• Outstanding pastoral care and opportunities for personal development

• A diverse range of co-curricular activities

The school promotes intellectual curiosity, creativity, and respect for others through robust pastoral systems, individualized tutoring, and a focus on every student.

School Structure:

• Pre-Prep: Nursery to Year 2 (ages 2–7)

• Prep: Year 3 to Year 8 (ages 7–13)

• Senior: Year 9 to Year 13 (ages 13–18)

Boys and girls are admitted from Pre-School to Year 4.

The modern campus features dedicated libraries, central atriums, science and design labs, art studios, a 450-seat theatre, facilities for music, dance, and drama, IT labs, and both senior and learner swimming pools.

Job Purpose:

The Teacher of Physical Education will be responsible for instructing Physical Education from Year 1 onward and contributing to a comprehensive extra-curricular program. This role entails ensuring that all students experience significant progress and find Physical Education both enjoyable and stimulating.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching & Learning

• Deliver a broad, balanced, and relevant curriculum while participating in the preparation and development of teaching schemes, materials, programs, and assessment methods.

• Facilitate high-quality learning experiences that enable children to reach their full potential.

• Provide well-structured, engaging, and creative lessons, catering to the diverse needs of students.

• Uphold high standards of behavior, achievement, and engagement.

• Differentiate lessons and resources to ensure accessibility and suitable challenges.

Curriculum

• Teach a broad, balanced, and relevant curriculum and contribute to the development of teaching schemes, materials, programs, and assessment methods.

• Facilitate high-quality learning experiences that empower children to achieve their full potential.

• Establish challenging learning objectives and utilize diverse strategies, resources, and technologies to enhance achievement.

• Adhere to school procedures for assessment, recording, and reporting.

• Engage in the broader extra-curricular and enrichment program.

School Values & Ethos

• Actively advocate for the school's unique vision and the Downe House Potential.

• Support the school’s dedication to delivering an exceptional, all-encompassing education.

• Set high expectations that inspire, motivate, and challenge students.

• Maintain high aspirations for students’ academic and personal growth.

• Provide outstanding pastoral care and guidance.

Management

• Adhere to and implement school policies and procedures.

• Ensure a safe, focused, and well-organized learning environment.

• Collaborate effectively with teaching assistants.

• Contribute to strong home–school partnerships.

Professional Standards

• Operate in alignment with Teachers’ Standards (DfE).

• Actively participate in CPD and whole-school initiatives.

• Contribute to extracurricular activities such as STEM clubs, trips, or revision sessions.

• Attend meetings, assemblies, and school events.

• Exhibit high standards of professionalism, punctuality, and presentation.

• Reflect on teaching practices and commit to continuous improvement.

• Maintain constructive, professional relationships with colleagues.

Safeguarding

• Fully adhere to safeguarding policies and procedures.

• Report concerns in accordance with school policy.

• Demonstrate a personal commitment to student well-being and safety.

• Engage thoroughly in safeguarding training.

Person Specification

(E = Essential, D = Desired)

Experience & Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education from a reputable university. (E)

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). (E)

• UK Post Graduate Certificate of Education (or equivalent). (E)

• Strong working knowledge of the UK National Curriculum and exam board specifications. (E)

• A solid academic background and professional credibility. (E)

• Dedication to academic progress, safeguarding, and student well-being. (E)

• Current understanding of educational developments and best practices. (E)

• Experience in a UK independent or international school setting. (D)

• Experience teaching students with English as an Additional Language (EAL). (D)

Personal Qualities

• Ability to challenge and support learners of all skill levels.

• Passion for instilling a love for physical education and learning.

• Strong interpersonal and teamwork abilities.

• Confident use of ICT to enhance educational experiences.

• Energy, resilience, and enthusiasm.

• Professional, positive, and solution-oriented mindset.

• A sense of humor coupled with a strong work ethic.

We provide a supportive leadership team, excellent professional development opportunities, and the chance to be part of a vibrant and dedicated school community.

Why Join Downe House Riyadh?

• Be part of a prestigious, globally-connected school known for its excellence.

• Collaborate within a supportive and professional team that values innovation and cooperation.

• Gain experience in a dynamic international school environment while contributing to a meaningful project.

Our Offer:

The successful applicant will receive a competitive tax-free salary. Additionally, there will be a strong commitment to supporting the development and career aspirations of the chosen candidates.

Applications should be submitted through the TES online application form, and only fully completed applications will be processed. To support your application, please attach your current, up-to-date CV.

Interviews may be conducted online or in person.

The school reserves the right to interview and appoint strong candidates prior to the official closing date, so we encourage early applications.

Thank you for your interest in Downe House Riyadh. Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Downe House Riyadh School and Cognita are dedicated to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expect the same commitment from all employees. All new hires will undergo thorough and enhanced pre-employment clearance, including identity verification, criminal background checks for all countries of residence, qualification validation, employment history checks—including an exploration of any gaps in employment—and satisfactory reference checks for the last 10 years.