Teacher of PE (Maternity Cover)

Arden is a truly exceptional school at the heart of the community and the peak of academic excellence. Situated just minutes off Junction 5 of the M42 and only 3 miles from the town of Solihull, visitors are astounded by our confident and articulate students. Our recent Ofsted report spoke about the culture of ‘exceptionally high aspirations that permeate the school' and ‘the positive relationships between staff and pupils’ where ‘teachers teach individuals, not classes’. As an innovative school always striving for better there is a constant drive to achieve maximum personal and academic potential and as part of a Multi Academy Trust there is the opportunity for exceptional training and the sharing of knowledge and ideas.

We are looking for a positive and engaging Teacher of PE. The successful candidate will be a forward-thinking practitioner who is able to transfer learning across multiple disciplines to support the progress of pupils in all areas of their personal development. Excellent subject knowledge and the ability to motivate students through inspirational, personalised teaching is essential.

Due to the maternity leave of a current member of staff, we would like to appoint a highly impactful teacher of PE for this temporary vacancy. To provide security, we would like to offer the position for a full year. Whilst the position is for one year initially, there is the possibility that this could become permanent as we seek to retain the highest quality teachers.

In every way, the PE Department mirrors the aims and beliefs of the school. All staff work hard, supported by a committed leadership team, to provide a safe and encouraging environment for learning. The recent Ofsted report highlighted the fact that ‘Leaders have planned a curriculum that is ambitious for all pupils’. It is true that Arden pupils love to acquire new knowledge and skills; our teachers relish the opportunity to deliver engaging, challenging lessons to committed pupils.

Applications are welcomed from ECTs and experienced practitioners. Outstanding support is provided for ECTs through our very supportive and structured ECT programme.

PE is taught through Key Stages 3, 4 and 5, and GCSE PE, BTEC Sport, Health & Social Care, Travel & Tourism and A Level PE are delivered by the PE department. The ability to teach one of these areas is desirable. The candidate appointed will be expected to contribute to the extensive extra-curricular activities run by the PE Department which can sometimes include working on Saturdays.

The opportunity for personal development and progression at Arden is enormous. An active commitment to staff development through a strong and consistent focus and dialogue around teaching & learning pedagogy makes this an ideal position for candidates committed to being the best practitioners they can be.

The school has an excellent record of success at GCSE and A Level.

GCSEs - In summer 2022, the school's Progress 8 score was 0.78 with an Attainment 8 score of 62 which shows the excellent attainment of our school. 74% of our students achieved a Grade 5 in both English and Maths, with 90% achieving this at Grade 4. More than 40% of the GCSE grades awarded were grade 7 and above, with 24% being awarded at Grade 8 & 9.

A Levels - In 2022, students achieved an average grade of a B+. Our average points score of 42.52 demonstrates the excellent outcomes that our students achieve. 45% of grades awarded were A*/A and 76.1% of Grades awarded were A*-B. 

Children of staff who are permanently employed at Arden Academy are eligible for a ‘staff’ priority for our ‘Outstanding’ main school and Sixth Form admissions (please see Admissions on our school website for full details).

Opportunities don’t arise very often to teach at a school like Arden and we are delighted to be offering the chance for someone to join the department.  

In return, we can offer you: 

• A positive and innovative learning culture supported by students, staff, parents and governors.   
• Enthusiastic students who enjoy learning and engage positively in all aspects of school life.    
• Access to high-quality continuing professional development and the opportunity for personal growth and development. 
• A collaborative and supportive attitude amongst staff which promotes a sense of teamwork and unity.
• A Senior Leadership team who is committed to promoting the best environment and outcomes for staff and students.
• Use of your own personal laptop.   
• Teacher Pension.     
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Outstanding school catering provision.

We can also offer you commitment to Middle Leader Development through:

• Middle Leader cross-trust training
• Middle Leader progress meetings with Associate Head teacher and Executive Head teacher
• Middle Leader support through highly effective SLT Line Manager

Further details are available to download below or from our school website: www.arden.solihull.sch.uk/vacancies/   

Application forms should be completed in full and attached to a letter of application. CVs will not be accepted. Please address all correspondence to Mr D Warwood, Associate Headteacher.  

Closing date: Friday 2nd December 2022 (9:00am)

Interviews: Friday 9th December 2022

Arden Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all its staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality or religion. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS Disclosure and, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education, will be subject to a social media online search.