PE Graduate Assistant

About the School - Brighton College Prep Kensington:

We are a thriving independent preparatory school in central London, educating boys and girls from the age of 2 to 13. Guided by our core values of confidence, curiosity, and kindness, we offer a broad, ambitious, and enriching education that places strong emphasis on physical wellbeing, teamwork, and outstanding pastoral care. As part of the Brighton College family of schools, widely regarded as the leading co-educational school group in the UK, we benefit from a strong shared ethos while retaining our own distinctive character. Named London Independent School of the Year finalists in 2025, we are recognised for our innovative approach and commitment to pupil wellbeing. Situated beside Exhibition Road, in the heart of London, we are uniquely placed to make exceptional use of local facilities, including the Imperial College Ethos Sports Centre and Hyde Park, alongside our developing on-site provision.

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, 'Thrive in a rapidly evolving world'.

About the Brighton College Family of Schools

Brighton College Prep Kensington is a proud member of the Brighton College Family of Schools, which includes Brighton College, three other UK-based Prep Schools, and a growing network of schools around the world. Brighton College is synonymous with academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care, and a commitment to the Arts, Sports, and extracurricular pursuits. Being a member of both Cognita and the Brighton College Family offers significant development opportunities and collaboration for our staff.

About the Role

We are seeking an enthusiastic, motivated, and energetic PE Graduate Assistant to support the delivery of PE, games, and sport across the school, from Early Years through to Year 8. This is an exciting opportunity for a graduate considering a career in education, coaching, or sport, to gain hands-on experience within a high-performing independent preparatory school. For the right candidate, there is the possibility of progressing to fully funded teacher training, making this an excellent pathway into the profession. The successful candidate will work closely with the PE department, supporting teaching, coaching, fixtures, and the wider sporting life of the school.

This is a permanent, full-time position with a proposed start date in the new academic year in September 2026.

Key Responsibilities

Supporting Teaching and Learning

• Assist in the delivery of PE lessons and games sessions across the school.
• Support individual pupils and small groups to develop skills, confidence, and enjoyment in sport.
• Help prepare equipment, set up activities, and ensure smooth transitions between lessons.
• Support safe practice and positive behaviour during all physical activities.

Coaching, Sport, and Competition

• Assist with coaching a range of sports across different age groups.
• Support extracurricular clubs, training sessions, fixtures, tournaments, and sports events.
• Accompany pupils to local and away fixtures and competitions.

Enrichment and Wider School Life

• Support sports days, swimming galas, festivals, and whole-school sporting events.
• Contribute to themed weeks, enrichment days, and outdoor or adventurous activities.
• Assist with residential trips where appropriate.
• Make full use of the Imperial College Ethos Sports Centre, Hyde Park, and the school’s developing facilities to enhance pupils’ sporting experiences.

Professional Development

• Work closely with experienced PE staff and receive mentoring and guidance.
• Observe and support high-quality teaching and coaching.
• Gain insight into lesson planning, assessment, and pastoral care.
• Have opportunities to contribute to the school’s developing sports science curriculum, including the use of new facilities such as the fitness suite and sports simulation suite.
• For the right candidate, progress towards fully funded teacher training within the school or wider Brighton College family.

Who We Are Looking For

Person Specification

Essential

• A degree (or expected degree) in Sports Science, Physical Education, or a related subject.
• A genuine enthusiasm for sport and working with young people.
• A positive, flexible, and proactive attitude.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Desirable

• Experience coaching or working with children in a sporting context.
• An interest in pursuing a career in teaching, coaching, or sport.
• First aid or coaching qualifications.

The School Offers

• A supportive and welcoming working environment.
• Outstanding access to sporting facilities, including the Imperial College Ethos Sports Centre, Hyde Park, and new on-site facilities.
• High-quality mentoring and professional development.
• The opportunity to progress to fully funded teacher training for the right candidate.
• A vibrant and friendly school community.

Benefits at Cognita

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience.
• Teacher’s Pension.
• School fee discount.
• Professional Development.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background. Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date for the right applicant.