At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the PE department, teaching across all age groups and abilities.
- Company: Join St Mark's, a caring and successful Catholic school in Harlow.
- Benefits: Comprehensive induction, strong CPD, supportive environment, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Male applicants only due to pastoral responsibilities; safeguarding commitment is paramount.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives and help them achieve their best in PE.
- Qualifications: Experience in teaching PE and the ability to motivate both staff and students.
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 employer: Catholic Recruitment
St Mark's West Essex Catholic School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional development and well-being of its staff. With a strong commitment to nurturing talent, the school offers comprehensive induction programmes and excellent CPD opportunities within a supportive and positive working environment. Located in Harlow, Essex, St Mark's fosters a culture of collaboration and high expectations, making it an ideal place for passionate educators to thrive and contribute to the success of their students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of PE
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and connect with fellow PE teachers. 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! Prepare a mini-lesson or a demonstration of your teaching style that you can present during interviews. This will give potential employers a taste of what you bring to the table and how you engage students.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the school! Familiarise yourself with St Mark's values and achievements. Tailor your conversation to show how your vision for the PE department aligns with their goals. It’ll show you’re genuinely interested and invested.
✨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 keen on joining our community and contributing to the future of the PE department.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of PE
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 Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant teaching experience in PE. Use the job description as a guide and align your skills with what we’re looking for. This will help us see how you fit into our outstanding department and what you can bring to the table.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and focus on communicating your ideas effectively. Remember, we want to get to know you quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at St Mark's. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Catholic Recruitment
✨Know Your PE Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and methodologies in physical education. Be ready to discuss how you can implement innovative teaching strategies that engage students across all abilities. Show them your passion for PE and how you can inspire pupils to reach their potential.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Head of PE, you'll need to motivate both staff and students. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or initiatives in the past. Think about times when you've inspired others or improved engagement in your classes – these stories will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Set High Expectations
Demonstrate your commitment to high standards in pupil engagement and behaviour. Be ready to discuss your strategies for maintaining discipline and encouraging a positive learning environment. Share specific examples of how you've achieved this in your previous roles.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations, especially regarding pastoral responsibilities. Think through scenarios related to supervising changing facilities and how you'd ensure the privacy and dignity of pupils. This will show your understanding of the role's requirements and your readiness to take on these responsibilities.
