How to become a PE Teacher

415

£20,000/y

avg. starting salary

What do they do? When it comes to your education, sometimes you need to get physical… PE Teachers are responsible for leading physical education lessons, teaching children about the fundamentals of fitness, as well as putting the rules of a range of different sports into practice. Most commonly, they can be found working in secondary schools. However, PE teachers can also work in primary schools, in colleges, or lead dedicated afterschool activities. Additionally, some PE teachers may take on teaching duties for other subjects as part of their full-time position. Typical duties for a PE Teacher could include:

Preparing lesson plans
Assessing ability levels, and tailoring activities
Motivating and encouraging students
Teaching about the principles of fitness, and game rules/theory
Marking work and grading exams
Discussing pupils progress with parents and carers
Organising games and events (both internally, and with other schools)

To become a PE Teacher, you’ll need a good level of physical fitness – not to mention an active interest in sport. Additionally, perhaps more than any other teaching positon, excellent motivation skills are an absolute necessity. Some students might have the potential to excel in certain sports, but without the right level of self-belief and encouragement, they may never realise their true potential. Being able to confidently pull off the shorts look all-year-round may also help, but is not necessarily essential… Key skills for a PE Teacher include:

Excellent communication skills
Organisational skills
Empathy
The ability to spot potential
Patience and tact
Trustworthiness and reliability

Teaching Assistant

Up to £20,000

PE Teacher

Up to £30,000

Head of Department

Up to £40,000

"I pretty much live and breathe sport, so after going to University to do a Sport Science degree, becoming a PE Teacher just seemed like the perfect career move for me. The best part of the job is that I generally get to spend my time out in the open, helping kids develop a real passion for sport. For some young people, it can be completely life-changing, helping them find something they’re good at and gain acceptance amongst their peers. It isn’t always easy, and not everyone will share your enthusiasm (especially when it’s raining and horrible out), but the positives definitely outweigh the negatives. Especially when it’s rugby season…"

Get qualified

To become a PE Teacher, you’ll need to start Initial Teacher Training (ITT), either through university-led training (e.g. undergraduate or postgraduate award), or through school-led work-based training (i.e. working in a school whilst studying for your PGCE). After ITT, you may gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

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