Teacher of Physical Education (PE) (Maternity Cover - Up to 12 Months) in Southampton

Bitterne Park School

We are pleased to offer an opportunity to join the well-established and high-performing Physical Education department at Bitterne Park School on a fixed-term maternity cover contract of up to 12 months.

This is a rare opportunity to work within a strong, experienced, and supportive team. While the post is initially fixed-term, as a large school there may be potential for future opportunities should a suitable vacancy arise. There is no guarantee of permanency, but we welcome applications from candidates interested in longer-term prospects as well as those seeking a fixed-term role.

Applications are welcome from teachers of any gender and any PE discipline, including early-career teachers and experienced practitioners.

About the Role

As a Teacher of Physical Education, you will deliver high-quality, engaging lessons across Key Stages 3 and 4 (and Key Stage 5, depending on experience). You will join a department with a strong culture of collaboration, high expectations, and inclusive practice.

Key responsibilities include:

• Planning and delivering engaging, well-structured PE lessons that meet the needs of all learners
• Contributing to a broad, inclusive, and well-sequenced PE curriculum
• Using assessment effectively to monitor progress and support improvement
• Creating a positive, inclusive, and safe learning environment
• Working collaboratively with colleagues to share best practice
• Contributing to enrichment, extracurricular sport, and wider school life
• Engaging in professional development to continually improve practice

Early Career Teachers will be supported through a structured induction and mentoring programme. Experienced teachers will have opportunities to contribute to departmental development and enrichment provision.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Is passionate about Physical Education and committed to high-quality, inclusive teaching
• Builds positive, respectful relationships with students and colleagues
• Is organised, reflective, and committed to continuous improvement
• Enjoys working as part of a collaborative and established team
• Maintains high expectations for all students
• Is committed to delivering engaging extra-curricular and enrichment activities that support student participation and wellbeing

Salary

• Main Pay Range / Upper Pay Range, depending on experience

Staff Benefits

Bitterne Park School offers a strong range of staff benefits to support wellbeing and work–life balance, including:

• Healthcare Cash Plan
• Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme (salary sacrifice)
• Free on-site staff gym
• Free on-site parking
• Free personal training, Pilates, and Boxercise sessions
• Retailer discount schemes
• Comprehensive staff wellbeing programme

Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities

Bitterne Park School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS check, provide satisfactory references, and complete all pre-employment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Requirements

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following:

Essential

• A recognised teaching qualification (e.g. QTS or equivalent).
• Strong subject knowledge in Physical Education and the ability to teach confidently across Key Stages 3 and 4.
• The ability to plan and deliver high-quality, engaging PE lessons that support and challenge all learners.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive, professional relationships with students and colleagues.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage workload effectively within a busy school environment.
• A clear commitment to inclusive practice, safeguarding, and the welfare of children and young people.
• A reflective and proactive approach to continuous professional development.

Desirable

• Experience teaching Physical Education at Key Stage 5.
• Experience working within a secondary school setting.
• Willingness to contribute to extra-curricular sport, enrichment activities, or wider school initiatives.
• An interest in curriculum development, assessment practice, or innovation in PE pedagogy.