At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic PE department and inspire students to achieve their best in Physical Education.
- Company: Join Kingdown School, a top secondary school in Wiltshire with a vibrant learning community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive workplace, training opportunities, and career progression within a collaborative trust.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to excellence and student success.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while developing your leadership skills in education.
- Qualifications: QTS required; experience in teaching PE and proven leadership skills preferred.
The predicted salary is between 47185 - 131056 £ per year.
Kingdown School is looking for a highly skilled Head of Physical Education to join its dynamic and well‑regarded PE Department, effective from September 2026. This is a wonderful opportunity for an experienced teacher to lead PE within the department, supporting the team in raising attainment and challenging students to achieve their best. Kingdown School is a co‑educational, non‑denominational secondary school and sixth form educating pupils aged 11–18. It ranks among the top ten secondary schools in Wiltshire, located in the historic town of Warminster with strong links to Salisbury, Bath, Bristol and the South‑West. The school is an academy within the Acorn Education Trust, offering opportunities for collaboration and improvement.
The successful candidate will share our passion for helping pupils to believe, aspire and achieve, and will be able to teach PE across the full age and ability range; knowledge of A‑Level topics is desirable. QTS is essential. Previous similar leadership experience is advantageous.
We are looking for someone who:
- Is an experienced teacher committed to delivering excellence;
- Has experience teaching Physical Education to KS5;
- Has proven leadership skills/experience (ideally in PE, or a similar subject area);
- Has a passion for Physical Education and strong expertise in the subject;
- Can teach a broad range of engaging and effective lessons that motivate, inspire and improve student attainment;
- Can work with our subject lead team to plan and deliver lessons and sequences of lessons to the highest standard that ensure real learning takes place and students make superior progress;
- Is able to raise attainment and challenge students to achieve their best;
- Has a commitment to extra‑curricular activities;
- Is aware of current initiatives geography and has an in‑depth knowledge of the subject and programmes of study across all Key Stages (3‑5);
- Is an effective team member who can contribute positively to the work in our PE Department and is capable of supporting the development of colleagues;
- Has a positive, cheerful outlook with a good sense of humour;
- Is able to forge good relationships with students and staff;
- Is able to work hard and remain calm under pressure;
- Has a desire and the potential to develop a career in teaching at a leadership level;
- Has a desire to work within the Multi‑Academy Trust (MAT) structure.
We can offer the successful candidate:
- An ambitious and vibrant place to work, with enthusiastic children and staff who are passionate about learning;
- A workplace where everyone feels valued and supported;
- Opportunities for training and progression;
- The support of Acorn Education Trust, with excellent opportunities to work with experienced colleagues;
- A supportive and clearly defined induction procedure.
Safeguarding Statement: Acorn Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. If successful in obtaining this post you will be subject to a Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service and health screening. We are an equal opportunities employer. As part of our safer recruitment processes, if you are shortlisted for the post, we will carry out a social media account search.
Head of PE employer: Melksham Oak Community School
Kingdown School is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive environment for educators passionate about Physical Education. Located in the historic town of Warminster, the school provides ample opportunities for professional growth within the Acorn Education Trust, fostering collaboration and innovation among staff. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on student achievement, Kingdown School ensures that every employee feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact.
Contact Details:
Melksham Oak Community School Recruitment Team
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, especially those who might know someone at Kingdown School. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s ethos and values. Show us how your passion for Physical Education aligns with their mission to help pupils believe, aspire, and achieve. Tailor your responses to reflect this!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills! Think of specific examples where you’ve led a team or improved student outcomes. We want to see how you can inspire and motivate others in the PE department.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant community at Kingdown School.
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 inspired students and contributed to their success in the subject.
Highlight Leadership Experience:Make sure to emphasise any leadership roles you've held, especially in PE or similar areas. We want to see how you've led teams, improved teaching practices, and raised student attainment.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of PE role at Kingdown School. Mention how your skills align with our vision and values.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, plus you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Melksham Oak Community School
✨Know Your PE Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and initiatives in Physical Education. Be ready to discuss how you can implement these in your teaching and leadership style. Show them you’re not just passionate about PE, but also knowledgeable about the curriculum across all Key Stages.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or improved student outcomes in previous roles. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the PE department effectively.
✨Engage with Extra-Curricular Activities
Be ready to talk about your commitment to extra-curricular activities. Share any past experiences where you’ve organised or participated in sports events or clubs. This shows your dedication to fostering a love for physical activity beyond the classroom.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with the panel. Use your positive outlook and sense of humour to create a friendly atmosphere. Remember, they want to see how well you can forge relationships with both students and staff.
