Head of PE (Secondary) (AY 2026/27) – GEMS Cambridge International School, Abu Dhabi

We are seeking an outstanding and motivated Head of Secondary Physical Education to join our school from August 2026. 

The Head of Secondary PE provides academic and operational leadership for Physical Education across the Middle and Secondary schools.

The role supports the Director of PE in ensuring high-quality academic PE delivery, competitive sport provision, examination readiness, and student wellbeing. The post holder coordinates curriculum implementation, assessment oversight, and enrichment opportunities across Secondary PE in line with British curriculum expectations and UAE regulatory frameworks (ADEK and MoE).

Responsibilities:

1. Phase Leadership: 

•    Lead the delivery of the Secondary PE curriculum across Years 7-13.
•    Ensure curriculum progression from general physical education into academic PE pathways.
•    Support the Director of PE in maintaining coherence between Primary and Secondary PE provision.
•    Support the Director of PE in maintaining high standards across competitive sport and examination groups.
•    Lead Secondary PE staff meetings and ensure consistent implementation of agreed actions.
•    Promote a positive culture of participation, enjoyment, and physical wellbeing
•    Monitor curriculum implementation and ensure documentation remains inspection-ready.

2. Teach like a GEM (TLAG) Departmental Support:

•    Support the TLAG Champion in implementing the TLAG Framework across Secondary PE, ensuring shared expectations and consistency in practice.
•    Promote high-quality coaching skill instruction, and theoretical teaching for examination classes.
•    Monitor the effectiveness of TLAG implementation through lesson visits, planning reviews, and student feedback.
•    Ensure consistency in feedback, modelling worked solutions, and exam technique.
•    Ensure curriculum within the department is aligned with National Curriculum for England and exam board objectives where appropriate, and accessible to all through adaptive instruction meeting diverse physical abilities and needs.

3. Curriculum and Assessment:
•    Co-ordinate Middle and Secondary schools’ PE schemes of work to ensure progressive skill development.
•    Coordinate curriculum planning aligned with Cambridge iGCSE PE (0413).
•    Ensure theory and practical assessment requirements are met.
•    Oversee moderation and standardisation of practical assessments.
•    Maintain up-to-date knowledge of examination board requirements
•    Support accurate data entry and reporting within school assessment cycles.

4. Data, Standards and Student Achievement:
•    Monitor academic performance within iGCSE PE.
•    Analyse data trends and implement targeted intervention strategies.
•    Support pathway guidance for students pursuing PE academically through Options choices at Years 9 and 11.
•    Support identification and development of sporting talent.
•    Promote healthy lifestyles and positive attitudes towards physical activity.

5. Sport, Enrichment and Competition:
•    Coordinate fixtures, tournaments, and competitive sport provision.
•    Promote high levels of student participation across Secondary.
•    Support elite pathway development where appropriate, alongside the Director of PE Whole School.

6. Operational and Safety Oversight:
•    Support the safe use of facilities and equipment.
•    Ensure risk assessments are completed for all activities and events.
•    Coordinate Secondary PE timetables and staff deployment in collaboration with the Director of PE Whole School.

7. Compliance, Safeguarding and Inclusion:
•    Uphold and model the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection.
•    Ensure inclusive participation regardless of ability or background.
•    Maintain accurate, compliant departmental documentation in line with school, ADEK, and MoE requirements.
•    Assist the Director of PE Whole School to ensure departmental practice aligns with whole-school policies and regulatory expectations.
•    Ensure risk assessments are completed and safeguarding policy followed during enrichment activities.

Required Qualifications, Experience & Skills:
•    Education/teaching degree OR Bachelor’s degree and teaching qualification/license in the subject.
•    Leadership training or certification (NPQML, NPQSL or equivalent) desirable.
•    Minimum 3 years’ teaching experience in secondary education.
•    Proven leadership experience within a secondary phase (e.g. Head of Department, Phase Leader) of minimum a year.
•    Strong track record of improving teaching, learning, and student outcomes.
•    Effective in coaching, mentoring, and supporting staff performance.
•    Knowledge of the use of ICT in schools to aid teaching and learning.
•    Strong understanding of curriculum, assessment, and pastoral systems.
•    Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
•    Ability to analyse data and drive evidence-based school improvement.
•    Committed to safeguarding, wellbeing, and inclusive practice.
•    Adaptable, collaborative, and able to lead change confidently.

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.

Physical Education