Director of Sport

OLA seeks a well-qualified, inspirational and experienced Director of Sport to lead our new and exciting Sports Development Plan. For an aspiring senior leader, this post will offer invaluable experience for future promotion. This is a new post and ‘enhanced Sports provision’ is a key area for development for the School. The successful candidate will lead both the newly rebranded Sports Department, and the overall provision of Sport within the whole school (Years 3 to 13). He or she will also be either Head of Netball or Head of Rugby (see attached job descriptions).

Please see attached Candidate Application Pack for full details.

The ideal candidate:  

• Excellent role model to all
• Patient, friendly and approachable  
• Understanding and supportive of the School's ethos
• A good degree in PE, Sports Science or related discipline 
• Relevant coaching qualifications
• Compelling record of success at middle management level 
• Demonstrable experience of coaching and sports team management success
• Team player who is flexible in outlook and attitude  
• Ability to analyse and use data effectively 
• Experience of using data management systems 
• Commitment to CPD
• Positive, enthusiastic, flexible with a pro-active ‘can do’ attitude 

What we can offer:  

• Free school lunches during term time  
• Free on-site parking  
• Friendly, supportive work environment  
• Teachers' Pension Scheme  
• School fee reduction scheme
• Motivated and enthusiastic pupils  
• Use of school facilities
• A peaceful location close to public transport and shopping facilities.

Abingdon-on-Thames is an historic, modern market town situated eight miles south of Oxford, with its world renowned reputation as a centre of academic excellence. The town's central shopping area provides a selection of restaurants, cafes and bars situated just a few minutes walk away from the river and gardens of Abbey Meadows. The town supports a mixed international community and has excellent bus links to Oxford, which is just a 15 minute ride away and provides a wealth of social and cultural opportunities.

How to apply:

Application deadline: 9.00am, Monday 13 May 2024

Applicants are asked to submit a completed application form via the TES portal. CV applications or incomplete application forms will not be considered.

• Ensure that your application form is completed in full and no gaps are left in your education/employment history. 
• Two referees should be provided, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. References will be requested prior to interviews taking place.
• In addition to the interview, candidates can expect to complete other selection exercises.
•  Applicants will be required to prove their right to work in the UK at interview. The School is unable to offer sponsorship to candidates who do not have worker status.
• The successful candidate will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and social media check in addition to other safeguarding measures.

Our Lady’s Abingdon is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All staff undergo an Enhanced DBS, and other safer recruiting checks.