At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire and coach primary school children in P.E. and sports activities.
- Company: Harpenden Academy, a friendly and high-achieving primary school.
- Benefits: Up to £19,600 salary, supportive colleagues, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and help shape the future of our students.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives through sports and physical education.
- Qualifications: Sports coaching qualifications and experience with KS1/2 pupils preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for an engaging and motivated Sports Coach/Specialist P.E. Teaching Assistant to work at our fantastic primary school. We take part in as many of the Harpenden and District sporting fixtures as we can, but we really do want to improve our engagement in more activities…and that is where you would come in. This is a new role for the school, and we are keen to appoint an enthusiastic and inspirational Sports Coach to join our friendly hardworking team who can think around the issue that we don’t have a school field.
The role will be teaching P.E. across both Key Stages, with children between the ages of 5 -11. You will cover teachers’ release time as well as providing lunch time and after school sporting activities. This role would be for September 2026 and would initially be for 1 year only, but we are hopeful that you will make yourself indispensable and you will stay longer.
Harpenden Academy is a one form entry, in the centre of Harpenden. We are a friendly, high achieving school with the ethos of “Educating Hearts and Minds” running through everything that we do. Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Ideally, you will have:
- Sports Coaching qualifications and a strong desire to progress into Teaching.
- Experience working with KS1/2 pupils.
- Strong communication skills and a knowledge of how to relate to children is vital.
- Knowledge of the National Curriculum.
In return we can offer you:
- Friendly children eager to learn.
- Supportive and outgoing colleagues.
- Opportunities for professional development that would be Trust wide.
If this sounds like you, please get in touch. We will be delighted to show you around our school and discuss this important role.
Diversity: Scholars’ Education Trust is fully committed to the principles of equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion. We want to attract and retain the very best staff in all areas of the trust, ensuring our staff body reflects the diversity of our students and local community.
Closing date for applications: 9am on 1st July 2026. Date of Interview: TBC. We reserve the right to make an appointment before the closing date, so early applications are encouraged.
Scholars’ Education Trust is an equal opportunities employer. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Barring Service Check.
Sports Coach employer: Harpenden Academy
Harpenden Academy is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and friendly work environment where you can make a real impact on children's lives through sports. With a commitment to professional development across the Scholars Education Trust, you will have ample opportunities to grow your skills while working alongside enthusiastic colleagues in a high-achieving school that values diversity and inclusion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sports Coach
✨Get Involved in Local Sports Events
Find local sports events or community recreation activities in your area and offer to volunteer. This is a fantastic way to network with industry professionals, gain hands-on experience, and show your commitment to the field. Plus, it could lead directly to job opportunities in organisations like Harpenden Academy!
✨Join Sports Management Associations
Consider joining sports management associations or local clubs related to your interests—these often have member directories or job boards. Engaging with these communities can help you learn about part-time roles and connect with key people who might point you towards open positions at places such as Harpenden Academy.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re currently studying or recently graduated, don’t overlook your uni’s career services! They often have tailored resources for landing part-time roles in sports management and can help you with personalised advice, job listings, and even intro opportunities to employers like Harpenden Academy.
✨Boost Your Online Presence
Create a LinkedIn profile highlighting your interest in sports and recreation management. Share any relevant experiences or passion projects related to sports, and join LinkedIn groups focused on the industry. This can help raise your visibility in the field and may catch the eye of hiring managers at Harpenden Academy!
We think you need these skills to ace Sports Coach
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sports:When applying for a role in sports recreation management, let your love for sports shine through in your CV and cover letter. Share any experiences you have managing teams, coordinating events, or working in sports facilities. This enthusiasm is infectious and is sure to catch the eye of the hiring team at Harpenden Academy.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to sports management, first aid, or coaching, make sure to list them prominently. These qualifications demonstrate your commitment to the field and your preparedness for the responsibilities of the job. Don't forget to mention any practical training that shows you're ready to jump in at Harpenden Academy.
Flexibility and Availability is Key:For part-time roles, availability can be a big plus. Mention your schedule clearly in your application, showing you're ready to work weekends or evenings if needed. This will help Harpenden Academy see you as a reliable choice who can fit in with their staffing needs.
Tailor Your Experience to the Role:When crafting your CV and cover letter, align your previous experiences with the specific requirements of the role at Harpenden Academy. If you've coordinated sports leagues, organised events, or managed budgets, make sure those get the spotlight. This way, you can clearly show how you're the perfect fit for their team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harpenden Academy
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In sports recreation management, it's all about engaging with people—be it clients, team members, or event participants. During the interview with Harpenden Academy, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully handled diverse groups and fostered positive experiences in recreational settings.
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
From managing sports facilities to understanding recreational programming, don’t forget the technical aspects of the role. Prepare to discuss specific software or tools you’ve used for scheduling events or managing participants, as this shows you're ready for the part-time responsibilities you'll be taking on at Harpenden Academy.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Sports
As this is a part-time role, passion counts for a lot! Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for sports and recreation in the interview. Talk about your experience with recreational activities—anything from coaching to volunteering—to help Harpenden Academy see the personal investment you've got in the field.
✨Think About Your Flexibility
With part-time roles, it’s essential to demonstrate your availability and adaptability. Be ready to discuss your schedule and how you can adjust to the needs of Harpenden Academy. Share examples of how you’ve successfully balanced other commitments while pursuing your passion for sports—it’ll show you’re a reliable choice for them.
