Head Of Physical Education

Principal Education; Greater London; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational recruitment firm is seeking a Head of Physical Education for a secondary school in Outer London. This full-time, permanent position is ideal for an ambitious PE teacher ready for progression or an established Head of PE seeking new challenges. The successful candidate will provide professional leadership, ensuring high-quality teaching and a positive sporting culture. The role includes leading the PE curriculum, coaching staff, and contributing to school improvement. Excellent professional development and support are offered.

Benefits

Access to excellent professional development

Leadership support

Impact on students' outcomes

Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is essential.
• Experience in teaching PE at secondary level is required.
• Readiness for subject leadership is desired.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for the PE department.
• Drive high standards of teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Manage and support staff through professional development.
• Promote teamwork and healthy lifestyles through sport.
• Contribute to whole-school improvement initiatives.

Skills

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Strong track record of successful PE teaching

Leadership skills

Strong organisational and communication skills

Passion for PE and school sport

Job description

Head of Physical Education (PE)

Secondary School | Outer London

Start Date: April 2026

Salary: M1-UPS3 + TLR 2b (Outer London)

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Principal Education is recruiting on behalf of a highly successful and rapidly improving secondary school in Outer London for a Head of Physical Education.

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious and inspirational PE teacher ready to take the next step into subject leadership, or an experienced Head of PE seeking a new challenge in a supportive, high-expectations environment.

The Role

As Head of PE, you will provide professional leadership and strategic direction for the department, ensuring high-quality teaching, strong outcomes, and a positive sporting culture across the school. PE is a popular subject with strong uptake at KS4 and a thriving extracurricular sports programme.

• Leading and developing an ambitious PE curriculum across KS3 and KS4
• Driving high standards of teaching, learning, and assessment within the department
• Using data effectively to monitor progress, raise attainment, and close gaps
• Managing and supporting staff through coaching, mentoring, and professional development
• Promoting participation, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles through curricular and extracurricular sport
• Contributing to whole-school improvement and leadership initiatives

The School

The school is one of the fastest improving secondary schools in London, with attendance in the top 10% nationally and strong behaviour and pastoral systems. Ofsted recognises the school for its calm learning environment, strong relationships, and ambitious curriculum.

The Ideal Candidate

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
• A strong track record of successful PE teaching at secondary level
• Experience of, or readiness for, subject leadership
• High expectations for all pupils and a commitment to inclusive practice
• Strong organisational, communication, and leadership skills
• A passion for PE and school sport, with the ability to inspire staff and students

Why Apply?

• Join a forward-thinking school on a strong improvement journey
• Lead a well-established and popular PE department
• Access excellent professional development and leadership support
• Make a genuine impact on students' outcomes and wellbeing

Safeguarding

This role is subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff to share this commitment.