Head of Department Physical Education Employer: St Edward’s Church of England Academy Reference: SCH/26/336571

St Edward’s Church of England Academy is a thriving, inclusive and values driven school that continues to grow in both size and ambition. As part of this exciting journey, we are seeking to appoint an inspirational Head of Physical Education to lead a highly valued and dynamic department. Physical Education at St Edward’s plays a central role in developing confident, resilient and healthy young people. This role offers the opportunity to shape an ambitious and inclusive curriculum that promotes participation, teamwork and excellence, while also supporting the physical, emotional and mental wellbeing of students.

We are a school that works hard — but with humanity and sustainability at the forefront. Leaders are deeply mindful of workload, staff wellbeing and home life, and we actively foster a culture of professional trust, collaboration and balance.

The successful candidate will:

• Provide strong, inspiring leadership for the PE department
• Shape and deliver a high quality, inclusive PE curriculum
• Promote enjoyment, participation and achievement in sport and physical activity
• Support and develop colleagues within a collaborative team
• Contribute to whole school improvement and wider school life
• Share our commitment to enabling students to live life in all its fullness

This role is ideal for a passionate leader who believes in the power of sport and physical activity to change lives and strengthen community.

As part of the Unity Schools Partnership, we offer:

• A wide range of CPD opportunities (both in school and beyond)
• Opportunities for career progression (including the opportunity to participate in the Trust’s Leadership Development Programme)
• A supportive working environment.

We can offer you excellent career development in a supportive environment. We are situated in Romford within easy travel and road links to both London and Essex.

If you would like an informal discussion about the post, or you would like to visit the school, please contact Maria Driscoll (Headteacher’s PA) on info@steds.org.uk. We look forward to receiving your application.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS checks required for relevant posts.

To apply, please visit our careers website. Closing Date: 11th May 2026, 09:00am. Interviews: From Wednesday 13th May 2026. Please note: we may hold interviews as and when applications are received and we reserve the right to offer to a candidate prior to the closing date. We only accept applications submitted online via our careers website and which are completed before the closing deadline. In line with safer recruitment, we are unable to accept CVs. Failure to complete an application form satisfactorily may result in not being shortlisted for the post.

Unity Schools Partnership is committed to safer recruitment, equal opportunities, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check will be required. We care deeply about inclusive working practices and diverse teams. If you’d prefer to work part-time or as a job-share, we’ll facilitate this wherever we can – whether to help you meet other commitments or to help you strike a great work-life balance. We’re keen to ensure we’re designing an organisation that works for everyone, so we particularly encourage applications from different under-represented groups. Unity Schools Partnership, welcoming diversity.