Head of Netball

About the School - Downsend - Main:
Downsend is an innovative and forward-thinking independent school with a new vision; to inspire a generation to embrace the future shaping incredible people who will make change in our world.

At Downsend we prepare our young people for the future with a creative and problem-solving approach. We think big we celebrate innovation and we never hold back.

We are delighted to announce that all four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be excellent in all areas by the Independent School Inspectorate.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of Netball to join our fantastic team.

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 100000 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.

At Cognita we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically socially and emotionally wherever they are in the world wherever theyre starting from. And each and every one of our schools is unique too.

We protect whats special about them while offering them rich knowledge opportunities and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger. We open their classrooms to the collective wisdom of over 90 schools in 21 countries ensuring every child gets an education thats quite literally world class.

Its an individual approach that empowers every school teacher and student to focus on what they do best and thrive.

About the Role:
The post holder will lead and coordinate the netball programme including planning the season delivering a progressive curriculum organising fixtures and supporting travel and match arrangements while maintaining strong communication within the department and developing school-club links. They will ensure high standards in teaching and learning working collaboratively to support pupil progression enrichment opportunities and the wider co-curricular life of the school including regular practices and addition they will uphold the departments ethos contribute to CPD and meetings and model excellent professional standards. Responsibilities also include assessing and monitoring pupil progress maintaining accurate records providing feedback and reports and communicating effectively with parents. The post holder will ensure compliance with SEND requirements and uphold high standards of health and safety at all times.

This is a permanent full-time role with an anticipated start date in September 2026.

To view the full role profile please click here.

Who We Are Looking For:
We are seeking a well-qualified and enthusiastic practitioner with a good honours degree and a recognised teaching qualification in PE and Games who demonstrates a genuine passion for their subject. The successful candidate will be a keen self-motivated individual committed to working as part of a successful team with a clear understanding of and willingness to contribute to the wider ethos of the school. They will possess excellent communication organisational and administrative skills and the ability to teach PE and Games across Years 2-13 with particular expertise in netball. The role requires energy enthusiasm and a willingness to go the extra mile alongside a cheerful professional manner a good sense of humour and the ability to deliver an engaging hands-on approach to teaching.

Benefits at Cognita:
*Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
*Enrolment in Teachers Pension Scheme
*Free lunch provided during Term Time
*School holidays and public holidays
*Free parking on site (subject to availability)
*School fee discount
*Exclusive third-party discounts
*Ongoing professional development

How to Apply:
Complete this application before the closing date: Sunday 17th May 2026

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 we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.