At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire PE teaching across all age groups, fostering high standards.
- Company: Join a caring and successful Catholic school in Harlow, Essex.
- Benefits: Comprehensive induction, strong CPD commitment, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Open to male applicants only for pastoral responsibilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives and contribute to their development.
- Qualifications: Experience in teaching PE and the ability to motivate staff and pupils.
The predicted salary is between 47185 - 131056 € per year.
The Governors are seeking to appoint the Head of PE to teach across the ability and age range, supporting the development of PE to the highest standards for all pupils at Key Stages 3–5. The post will be permanent, subject to a probationary period. This is an opportunity to join an outstanding department. The successful candidate will be a highly motivated and enthusiastic professional and be an excellent classroom practitioner.
We are looking for professionals with:
- Experience of teaching PE
- The ability to work with and motivate staff and pupils.
- High expectations of pupil engagement, attainment, and behaviour.
If you have the passion and drive to contribute to the future development of the PE department at St Mark’s, we look forward to hearing from you.
This post is open to male applicants only, as the role includes supervision of boys’ changing facilities and associated pastoral responsibilities. It is therefore necessary for the postholder to be male in order to protect the privacy and dignity of pupils. This constitutes a genuine occupational requirement in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010 and is considered to be a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.
In return, the school can offer:
- An established and comprehensive induction programme for new staff
- A strong commitment to your professional development and career management – excellent CPD and leadership development at all levels
- A supportive environment in which your enthusiasm will be encouraged, nurtured, and rewarded.
- A working environment focused on Teaching and Learning and raising standards for all.
- A positive and stimulating school climate which values the contribution of all staff.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Appointments are subject to satisfactory medical and enhanced DBS clearance and references. Please telephone 01279 421267 for an application form and further details, or download it from our website. Visits to the school are welcome by appointment.
Job start date: September 2026
Closing date: 02 June 2026
About St Mark’s West Essex Catholic School: St Mark’s is a successful, well‑ordered, and caring Catholic school for approximately 1000 boys and girls aged from eleven to eighteen, situated in the heart of Harlow, Essex. We are committed to the highest level of achievement for pupils of all abilities, and recognise that there are no limits to a child’s potential. We aim to inspire all our pupils to achieve their best through “belonging, engaging and succeeding together”. We believe in treating each pupil as an individual and valuing each person’s unique talents. Our curriculum has been designed to offer choice and to nurture all talents and abilities. Our school was rated “good” by Ofsted at our inspection of February 2023 and “good” with “outstanding” in our Section 48 Inspection in May 2025.
Head of PE in England employer: Catholic Recruitment
St Mark’s West Essex Catholic School is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for both staff and students. With a strong commitment to professional development, including excellent CPD and leadership opportunities, the school encourages its employees to thrive while contributing to a positive and stimulating climate focused on teaching and learning. Located in Harlow, Essex, this well-ordered and caring institution values the unique talents of each individual, making it an ideal place for passionate educators to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of PE in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and connect with other PE professionals. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got a portfolio of your teaching methods, lesson plans, or even videos of your classes, bring them along to interviews. It’s a great way to demonstrate your passion and expertise in PE.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s ethos and values. Tailor your responses to show how your teaching philosophy aligns with their commitment to high standards and pupil engagement. We want to see that you’re a perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our outstanding department at St Mark’s.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of PE in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for PE:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Physical Education shine through! Share specific examples of how you've motivated students and contributed to their development in the past. We want to see that you’re not just a teacher, but a true advocate for PE.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and goals of St Mark’s. Highlight your experience with different age groups and abilities, and how you plan to support the school's mission of inspiring all pupils to achieve their best.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, you can find all the necessary forms and information there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Catholic Recruitment
✨Know Your PE Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and techniques in physical education. Be ready to discuss your teaching philosophy and how you engage students of all abilities. Show them you’re not just passionate about PE, but that you also have a solid understanding of how to motivate and inspire pupils.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Head of PE, you'll need to lead a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully motivated staff and improved pupil engagement in previous roles. Think about specific strategies you've implemented and the positive outcomes that followed. This will demonstrate your capability to elevate the department.
✨Engage with the School's Values
Familiarise yourself with St Mark’s ethos and values. During the interview, relate your answers back to their commitment to high standards and individual pupil potential. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you genuinely want to contribute to their mission.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about their professional development opportunities or how they measure success in the PE department. It shows you're engaged and serious about the role, plus it gives you a chance to assess if the school is the right fit for you.
