Sports Assistant (Graduate)

You: motivated; versatile; considering a career in Physical Education and Sport; team-player; keen to learn; can-do attitude; friendly; organised; punctual.

What we offer: valuable experience in an excellent boarding prep school (Reception to Year 8); access to centuries of experience from our amazing teachers; use of our sports facilities; central Cambridge location; long school holidays for seeing the world!

Reporting to                          

• Director of Sport

Type of position                      

• Full time (Fixed Term 1st September 2023 - 31st July 2024)

Salary                                      

• £19,095 (for a 21-year-old)

Start date                                

• 1st September 2023

The School

Based on an historic foundation of musical excellence, King’s College School is a dynamic and inclusive academic environment. We are a caring family-based community in which all children are respected and valued. We prepare them, as individuals, to be confident in a future with exceptional possibilities.

Located near the centre of the beautiful city of Cambridge, King’s College School is a leading independent Prep School. Originally established in 1441 to educate the 16 boy choristers of King’s College Choir, the School now caters for around 400 boys and girls aged 4 – 13 following the traditional Preparatory model; we have around 40 boys and girls who board, including our choristers. King’s pupils continue their education at leading independent and state senior schools, often with scholarships.

King’s is a vibrant and exciting place to work. Outside the classroom there are many activities and staff are expected to take an interest in all aspects of School life. 

The Role

The Sports Assistant will play an integral part of the day-to-day running of the Games/PE department. The successful candidate will take an enthusiastic and responsible approach to all teaching. They will follow a detailed duty rota which includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Key Responsibilities

• To attend PE lessons and assist with lesson set up and changing whilst being an active part of that PE lesson as a supervised member of the teaching team.
• To prepare equipment for lessons on the request of teachers to aid the smooth running of the teaching timetable.
• To be an active part of the Games programme and be involved with teams on fixture days.
• To assist with the storage of sports equipment to help the smooth running of resources in the department.
• To be an active part of the after-school activity programme by leading 2/3 sports clubs after school in an area of your expertise or competency.
• To attend relevant in-service training and occasional staff meetings.
• At all times, to set a good example to pupils.
• To supervise pupils as necessary during the school day when special circumstances require, e.g. escorting pupils to different locations, crossing roads, directing them to lunch, changing for sports’ lessons or activities.
• To monitor pupils’ behaviour and social interactions; encouraging inclusion and managing games to promote fairness;

In working with pupils, they are also expected:

• To take responsibility for the care and well-being of all pupils in their care.
• To know, demonstrate and promote the King’s ethos.
• To be sensitive to social relationships between children. 
• To be aware of pupils’ concerns and be sensitive to these in practice.
• To be proactive in reporting concerns about a pupil, to the Director of Sport.
• To be familiar with all relevant School policies and procedures such as the School’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, Policy for Good Discipline and Anti-Bullying Policy.

Person Specification

The person appointed will demonstrate a particular interest in working with children in sport. Must have played competitive sport at club/University level with skills in Hockey and Netball a particular benefit. Experience in coaching younger children would also be an advantage. A sense of humour, the ability to remain calm in challenging situations and excellent interpersonal skills are all essential. The ability to work as part of a team is crucial. 

Essential

• Enthusiasm for and commitment to sport for all children, regardless of ability.
• Excellent track record in competitive sport.
• Approachable, committed, enthusiastic, motivated, calm, well-organised
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• An ability to take responsibility for activities or special projects
• Open and responsive to new experiences
• Willing to work as part of a team
• Willing to play an active part in the School community
• An understanding of, and acceptance and commitment to, the principles underlying equal opportunities

Desirable

• Experience of coaching/teaching team sports

Benefits

• Meals provided when on duty during term time
• Generous holiday entitlement
• Staff health scheme
• University discount card
• Use of bookable School sports’ facilities

How to apply

Candidates should return the following documents, together with a letter of application, by 9am on Monday 27th February 2023.

• Application form
• Reference consent form
• Equality & Diversity Monitoring form (optional)

Please see our website for full details.