Director of Sport

Director of Sport

Information for prospective
members of staff

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Appointment of Director of Sport
for September 2026

St Joseph’s College is seeking to appoint a Director of Sport for a September
2026 start, reporting to a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The
Director of Sport at St Joseph’s College will hold a pivotal leadership role
responsible for the overall development of all matters relating to sport and
physical activity. This is a whole College position with a clear mandate to
ensure both participation and performance in sport are exceptional for all
pupils.

The closing date is: 9am, Friday 17 April 2026.

Early application is encouraged as we reserve the right to close the vacancy
early, once a suitable candidate is appointed.

Contents

Message from the Head

About the Department

About the Role and Person

Duties and Responsibilities

Person Specification

About the College

Our Missions and Aims

Why St Joseph’s?

Appointment Procedure

Interview Process

How To Find Us

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Message from the Head,
Mrs Laura Stotesbury

Thank you for your interest in St Joseph’s College.
I am delighted that you are considering our school
and I trust that this recruitment pack will provide
you with the information you require both about
the post and the College.

I believe that this is an exciting time to be joining St Joseph’s College. There
has been a significant growth in the pupil roll over the last few years and
the governors are continually looking to invest in the facilities. There is a real
appetite for what we have to offer as both an educational establishment and
an employer.

The College seeks to be a school which places an emphasis on providing
an all-round education: academic, pastoral, social and spiritual, where
pupils develop the attributes of commitment, collaboration, confidence,
communication and compassion through the various aspects of school life.
The College is a very happy place, and colleagues enjoy teaching here.

I hope that you will want to apply for this post. I recognise that much time
and thought goes into preparing an application and we, in turn, will give your
application serious consideration.

Mrs Laura Stotesbury
Head

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About the Department
The department comprises four members of full-time staff alongside two students on year long placements who
deliver the curriculum across the College, from Reception to Year 13. Teaching covers all areas of the PE National
Curriculum, engaging pupils’ learning in skill development, technique, tactical and compositional knowledge. A wide
range of extra-curricular sports clubs are run by the department, with pupils extending their sporting ability and
gaining recognised awards such as NICAS Levels 1 and 2. Staff regularly take teams to friendly, league and tournament
fixtures, as well as hosting invitational tournaments and galas.

On site facilities include three Astroturf football pitches, an indoor swimming pool, a gym and a field used for a
variety of team and athletics. The College makes extensive use of Reading University’s sporting facilities.
Students enjoy PE and demonstrate high levels of collaboration and teamwork. Pupils also enjoy participating
in different roles such as a coach and an umpire; successful candidates would show an enthusiasm to develop
pupils in various sporting roles as well as stretching our more gifted sports players. In the past year we have
enjoyed success in the following areas:

Prep Games Afternoons:
Junior pupils enjoy training and competing in Netball, Hockey, Rugby, Football and Cricket. The extended
afternoon schedule allows for in depth coaching and a range of fixtures to take place. Pupils have enjoyed
training at Peppard Cricket Club and round robin Netball tournaments at The Dolphin School.

Lower and Upper Seniors Games Afternoons:
Senior School pupils enjoy training and developing their skill level in Games activities. Our major sports are Rugby,
Football, Hockey, Netball, Tennis and Cricket. They have weekly scheduled matches, competing in A, B and C teams
with other local independent schools.

Senior Games Afternoons:
Many of our pupils in Year 11,12 and 13 want to continue to train and compete in traditional Games sports.
Our 1st teams have the opportunity to play a variety of fixtures and then compete in their ‘showcase’ final match.
Games accommodates all interests by offering a variety of recreational sports such as Squash, XFit, Paddle Boarding
and Spinning.

PE Curriculum:
Swimming, Athletics and Gymnastics form the timetabled PE lessons where pupils can learn individual skills and
improve their fitness and strength qualities. GCSE pupils follow a curriculum of NICAS Climbing.

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About the Role
We are seeking to appoint a new Director of Sport at St Joseph’s College. The successful candidate must uphold the College’s strong
reputation for sporting inclusivity and also have the innovation and strategic vision to write the next chapter for Sport at the College. You
will hold a pivotal leadership role responsible for the overall development of all matters relating to sport.

This is a whole College position with a clear mandate to ensure both participation and performance in sport are exceptional for all pupils.
In this role, you will be entrusted with the strategic direction of the Sports Department. You will develop and execute a comprehensive
sport strategy that aligns with the school’s educational goals, shaping the sporting culture of the College and promoting excellence,
inclusivity, and lifelong engagement in physical activity.

Your responsibilities will also encompass curriculum development. You will oversee the design and implementation of an inclusive and
dynamic physical education curriculum that caters to students of all abilities. Your adaptability and innovation will be essential in ensuring
that both curriculum and co-curricular sport remain engaging, progressive, and reflective of evolving student interests.

Leading a dedicated team of PE staff and specialist coaches, you will maintain high teaching and coaching standards. Collaboration is key as
you work with colleagues across the College, ensuring a cohesive and aspirational sporting provision that supports both elite performers
and those new to sport.

Student engagement lies at the heart of your role. You will actively encourage participation in a wide range of sporting activities, fixtures,
clubs, and competitions. Your passion for sport will inspire pupils, fostering teamwork, resilience, and a strong sense of College identity.

Event planning is another significant aspect of the role. You will oversee the organisation of fixtures, tournaments, sports days, tours, and
major sporting events throughout the academic year. These events will showcase pupil achievement and strengthen the community spirit of
St Joseph’s College. You will be confident communicating with parents, staff, and external partners and coordinating large-scale events.

Efficient resource management will be imperative. You will oversee the Sports Department budget, facilities, and equipment, ensuring
high-quality provision and sustainable development. Effective financial management and strategic planning will be key to maintaining and
enhancing the College’s sporting offer.

Furthermore, collaboration will extend beyond the Sports Department as you work closely with other departments and pastoral teams.
This will ensure sport contributes meaningfully to the broader educational experience and wellbeing of pupils.

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Duties and Responsibilities
The key requirement for a middle leader is to be an effective professional who demonstrates thorough curriculum knowledge,
can teach and assess effectively, take responsibility for professional development and can encourage students to achieve well.

Main Requirements

Three qualities are essential:
1.  You must be a first-rate teacher who has a real enthusiasm for both your subject and how it is most effectively taught
2.  You must enjoy the pastoral aspects of teaching
3.  You must want to contribute to the extra-curricular activities of the Department and of the College

In fulfilling the requirements of the post, the teacher should demonstrate essential professional characteristics, and in
particular will:

Engage and motivate pupils

Inspire trust and confidence in pupils and colleagues

•
•  Build team commitment with colleagues
•
•  Demonstrate analytical thinking to improve the quality of pupils’ performance and participation
•  Contribute to the College improvement/development planning and promote its priorities
•  Contribute to the development and/or implementation of College policies
•  Participate in the performance management process to enhance professional practice
•  Uphold the values and mission of St Joseph’s College
•  Promote the wider aspirations and values of the College

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Areas of Responsibility and Key Tasks

Head of Department Responsibilities

•  Advise the Head and Leadership Team on the aims and future direction of sport and the resources required
Ensure all departmental documentation is current and aligned with College priorities
•
Implement and monitor College policies within the department
•
Lead departmental meetings focused on improving teaching, coaching, and participation
•
•
Ensure provision meets the needs of all pupils, from high-performance athletes to beginners
•  Analyse performance data, participation rates, and fixture outcomes to inform development
•  Monitor standards of teaching and coaching through observation and review
Support staff development through mentoring and professional opportunities
•
•
Promote sharing of best practice within the department
•  Communicate effectively with parents regarding sport provision and opportunities
•  Oversee fixtures, team selection processes, and communication with opposition schools
•
Ensure effective use and maintenance of facilities and adherence to health and safety
•  Manage and monitor the department budget effectively
•  Contribute to recruitment, induction, and development of staff
•

Keep up to date with developments in sport, coaching, and physical education

Enrichment

Ensure opportunities for pupil participation, enrichment, and high performance pathways
Identify and nurture sporting talent across the College

•  Organise a broad and exciting co-curricular sports programme
•  Oversee fixtures, tournaments, and inter-house competitions
•
•
•  Work closely with the Preparatory School to develop sporting pathways
•
•
•

Lead and organise sports tours and residential opportunities
Encourage participation in external competitions and representative pathways
Promote inclusive sport and lifelong engagement in physical activity

Partnerships

•  Collaborate with the Preparatory School to ensure continuity and development
Build relationships with local clubs, academies, and sporting organisations
•
Support marketing and admissions by showcasing sport as a strength of the College
•
•  Develop links with feeder schools to support recruitment
•  Represent the College at external sporting events and networks

Cont overleaf

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Areas of Responsibility and Key Tasks cont.

Staff Development

•
•
•

Ensure staff access high-quality professional development
·Line manage departmental staff and foster a positive team culture
Identify training needs and support long-term departmental growth

Planning and Resource Management

Produce and implement a strategic and operational development plan for sport

•
•  Oversee health and safety, risk assessments, and safeguarding in sport
•
Plan and manage the annual sports calendar
•  Manage facilities, staffing, and resources effectively
•  Oversee and allocate the department budget responsibly

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Person Specification

Criteria

Essential

Education,
Qualifications
and Experience

Skills and
Attributes

Personal
Qualities

Degree
Proven record of successful teaching of PE to GCSE level and knowledge of PE A Level
curriculum
Up-to-date knowledge of the curriculum and current educational developments
Commitment to continual professional development
Ability to coach and officiate three major sports
Excellent subject knowledge
Passion for developing the subject
Good communication and inter-personal skills
Good classroom management skills
Empathy with pupils across the age and ability range
Ability to employ a range of effective teaching, learning styles and assessment methods
Ability to motivate and inspire pupils
Capacity to deal sensitively with problems raised by pupils
High expectations of pupils
Vision and clear thinking
Passion for teaching
Excellent role model for pupils
Enthusiastic and able to enthuse and encourage others
Ability to establish good working relationships and work well in a team
Flexible, motivated, able to work unsupervised and an ability to deal with unpredictable
situations

Other
Requirements

Fully supportive of the College’s Catholic tradition
Commitment to the ethos of the College
Willingness to contribute to extra-curricular activities
Commitment to safeguarding and well-being of all pupils

Desirable

A recognised teaching qualification, such as a PGCE

Qualified Teacher Status

Evidence of involvement in relevant professional development
Experience of successful ‘innovative practice’ in teaching
Experience of managing a fixtures programme
Experience of dealing with external contractors eg transport

Experience of the role of tutoring for a group of pupils

Innovatory approaches to curriculum delivery

Ability to generate ideas and drive initiatives

Ability to defuse difficult situations using different strategies such as careful listening,
sensitive use of humour, praise and recognition

Forward-thinking approach

Commitment to the whole life of the College

Able to promote the image of the College through an articulate and confident
approach

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About the College

St Joseph’s College is the leading independent day school for boys and girls aged 3 to 18 in Berkshire. It is fully
co-educational and consists of the Senior School (ages 11 to 18) and the Prep School (ages 3 to 11). The Senior School
and Prep School are located within a single campus.

Awards
The College has won several awards over the last few years including TES Independent School of the Year, Outstanding
Progress at the Education Business Awards and Outstanding Leadership Team at the Leadership Awards.

Ethos
St Joseph’s is a Catholic school welcoming pupils of every faith or no faith. Pupils are educated in an atmosphere where
Christian values and standards are recognised and established. The size of our classes means everyone receives the
individual guidance and support they need to achieve their potential. Staff, pupils and parents form strong links, with a
focus on both the academic progress and the well-being of each pupil.  We encourage all pupils to develop an awareness
of their own role in society.

Points of Entry
The main points of entry to the school are at age 3, 11, 13 and 16. Entry into the Senior School is by formal assessment,
and around 60% of applicants to the Senior School are from maintained primary schools.

Leavers’ Destinations
The majority of Sixth Form leavers go on to their choice of university to study a diverse range of subjects. Examination
results are strong and improving year-on-year, however our focus is very much on producing young adults who also have
skills for life such as confidence, social skills and a good understanding of the world around them.

Recent Developments
During the past six years the Governors have taken a number of measures to develop the College. In addition to
becoming co-educational these include an emphasis on marketing and a substantial investment in facilities, buildings and
staff. Consistently rising pupil numbers provide momentum for growth and the confidence to make further investment.

The Future
Looking to the future, St Joseph’s will continue its ambitious plans to enhance and develop the College. However, we will
ensure that as we grow, our caring ethos remains at the heart of the College. The warm and friendly nature, together
with the way pupils display concern and respect for one another, are often commented upon by visitors and parents. We
are proud of this and it is one of the most rewarding aspects of working here.

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At St Joseph’s, our mission is to encourage, inspire, challenge and support pupils to fulfill their potential in a community founded on Catholic Christian values.

We aim to develop life skills of compassion, commitment, collaboration, confidence and communication in each pupil, throughout each of their years at the school.

Our Mission and Aims

The College’s ISI inspection took place in November 2025

The recent inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate provided a positive evaluation of provision
across all areas of school life. The report highlights strong academic outcomes, high-quality pastoral support
and a rich co-curricular offer. Inspectors noted that the ethos and values of St Joseph’s College are clearly
reflected in pupils’ daily experiences, fostering an environment built on inclusivity, respect and compassion.

The report recognises the commitment of staff across the College, whose work enables pupils to thrive
both within and beyond the classroom. Their dedication supports pupils’ personal development, academic
progress  and  engagement  with  the  wider  life  of  the  school.  The  contribution  of  Governors  is  also
acknowledged, particularly in providing consistent oversight and strategic guidance.

Inspectors  noted  the  positive  involvement  of  parents  and  pupils,  whose  views  contributed  meaningfully
to the overall findings. Feedback shared during the inspection reflected strong levels of confidence in the
school’s direction, culture and support systems.

As part of their process, the inspection team outlined recommended areas for continued improvement.
These include developing a comprehensive digital strategy and further enhancing the use of data to inform
classroom planning. Both priorities are already incorporated into the College’s Vision 2030 strategic plan,
ensuring they are actively being progressed.

Overall, the inspection report presents an encouraging and accurate reflection of the work undertaken
at St Joseph’s College to support every pupil in achieving their best. Consistently high outcomes at GCSE
and A level, alongside strong university offer rates, further demonstrate the effectiveness of the school’s
approach to teaching, learning and holistic development.

ALL AREAS WERE ‘MET’

The Independent Schools Inspectorate is appointed by the Department of Education to
inspect independent schools in England. The inspectors report on the extent to which the
statutory Independent School Standards and other applicable regulatory requirements
are met, collectively referred to in this reports as ‘the Standards’.

Schools are expected to meet the robust standards in each of the sections listed below:

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

1

2

3

4

Leadership and
Management, and
Governance

Quality of
Education, Training
and Recreation

Pupils’ Physical
and Mental Health
and Emotional
Wellbeing

Pupils’ Social and
Economic Education
and Contribution
to Society

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Safeguarding

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

St Joseph’s ISI inspection in November 2025 found that all standards in all
areas were ‘met’.

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Why St Joseph’s?

Education for boys and girls from age 3 to 18

At St Joseph’s we offer:
•  A safe and happy environment in which academic and social skills are developed
•
•  A varied curriculum and excellent facilities
•  A strong sense of community
•  High academic reputation
•  Wide range of extra-curricular activities including a strong tradition of music and drama

St Joseph’s is staffed by teachers who combine the best in traditional educational values with a sharp awareness of what is
appropriate for pupils who need to be prepared for the twenty-first century. Our pupils are encouraged to be confident,
questioning, independent learners, whilst at the same time developing a moral and spiritual sense of purpose in their lives
and in their studies.

Salary
The College has its own salary scales, with starting salaries dependent on the experience and qualifications of the
successful candidates. Salary scales are reviewed annually by the Governors, to ensure they remain competitive. Annual
salary is paid by bank transfer on the last working day of each month, in 12 equal monthly instalments.

Non-contractual benefits

School fee reduction
Staff at St Joseph’s College (who are not employed on casual contracts) are eligible for a staff discount on basic tuition
fees of 50% for full-time staff, pro rata for part-time staff, subject to their child(ren) meeting the entrance requirements.

Childcare vouchers
St Joseph’s participates in the government’s salary sacrifice childcare voucher scheme or government tax-free childcare
scheme.

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Staff Room
There is a professional, friendly and supportive Staff Room,
together with departmental workspaces throughout the school.

The above non-contractual benefits are currently available to
staff. They are at the discretion of the Governors who reserve
the right to withdraw them without notice.

Pension
The College pays its teachers a total remuneration package
which provides teachers with flexibility in determining the level
of contributions paid into their pension. This provides staff with
the option to increase their take home salary by reducing their
total pension contribution (employer and employee) or vice
versa.

All teachers are automatically enrolled into the College defined
contribution pension scheme – the Aviva Pension Trust for
Independent Schools (APTIS).

The pension scheme includes:
• Employer contributions matched to Employee contributions.
The limiting factors are simply the individuals’ salary and
statutory limits. Contributions can be varied annually by staff to
meet changing circumstances as required.
• An Employee Assistance Programme provided by Care First.

Further literature on the APTIS scheme, together with
examples about how the level of pension contribution can be
varied, is available from the Bursar.

Drinks and snacks
Tea, coffee and biscuits are available to all staff at break time,
and there is access to hot drinks throughout the day. Snacks
and light meals are provided to staff when working later in the
evening for school events.

Lunch
A duty meal may be obtained from the Dining Hall.

Laptop
Teaching staff are loaned a school laptop to assist with their
teaching and administration, and docking stations are available
throughout the school.

Use of a private vehicle
Subject to a journey being approved by the Bursar or Head,
staff can use their private vehicle for school journeys during
working hours. The insurance will be under the school’s
insurance and staff can claim for mileage.

Car parking
All staff may park in the school car park, subject to the
availability of a space. A valid school parking permit must be
displayed clearly on the windscreen of any car parked onsite.

Counselling
Staff have access to a 24 hour telephone counselling helpline.
In addition, the lay chaplain or visiting school counsellor may be
able to see staff.

Legal advice
Staff have access to a 24 hour legal information telephone
helpline, covering issues such as consumer rights, debt, tax and
personal injury.

Healthcare helpline
A telephone based healthcare support service is available to all
staff at no cost.

Swimming pool
Staff are permitted to use the school swimming pool during
designated staff swimming sessions.

CPD and training
Professional development is nurtured and encouraged. The school
has a full annual INSET programme and staff have access to
the National College Platform. There is strong support for new
teaching staff. Early Career Teachers can undertake their accredited
ECT years through the Independent Schools Teacher Induction
Panel and a number of members of staff have completed teaching
qualifications whilst employed at St Joseph’s.

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Appointment Procedure

•  Applications will only be accepted from candidates completing the College

Application Form in full, accompanied by a covering letter.

•  The covering letter should illustrate specifically why you think you should be

considered for this role, giving clear evidence of how your skills and experience
meet the requirements of the role. You should give clear examples, and relate
these to the job description and person specification.

•  These should be emailed to recruitment@sjcr.org.uk or alternatively sent by

post to Mrs Guest, HR Recruitment Officer,, St Joseph’s College, Upper Redlands
Road, Reading, Berkshire RG1 5JT. Electronic application is encouraged and
preferred.

•  Closing Date: 9am, Friday 17 April 2026. Applications will be reviewed
upon receipt and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early, so early
application is encouraged.

•  All offers of employment are subject to the receipt of two satisfactory

references, one of which must be from your current or most recent employer.
For shortlisted applicants for teaching posts, references may be taken up prior to
interview.

•  St Joseph’s College employs personnel who are best qualified for the post

without discrimination in respect of age, disability, race, gender or native origin.
•  The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

•  Successful applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks

with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

•  A copy of the College Recruitment, Selection and Disclosures Policy and
Procedures can be found on the College website: https://www.sjcr.org.uk/
vacancies/

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Interview Process

•  All candidates invited to interview must bring documents confirming any educational and professional qualifications that are necessary or relevant for the post (e.g. the original or

certified copy of certificates, diplomas etc). Where originals or certified copies are not available for the successful candidate, written confirmation of the relevant qualifications must
be obtained by the candidate from the awarding body.

•  During your visit you should expect to attend a number of interviews with different members of staff. We will also assess your suitability to work with children.

•  You will also be required to teach a lesson which will be observed. You will be provided with a brief for the lesson beforehand.

•  In addition to formal interviews there will also be an opportunity for shortlisted candidates to tour the College and to meet prospective colleagues.

•  The College requests that all candidates invited to interview also bring with them:

•  A current driving licence including a photograph, a passport and a birth certificate
•  A utility bill or financial statement issued within the last three months showing the candidate’s current name and address
•  Where appropriate any documentation evidencing a change of name
•  Proof of entitlement to work and reside in the UK

Please note that originals of the above are necessary. Photocopies or certified copies are not sufficient.

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How to find us

•  St Joseph’s College is situated in central Reading, near the University
and the Royal Berkshire Hospital. It is close to the M4 (Junction 11)
and has excellent transport links.

•  If travelling by train, the school is approximately 20 minutes’ walk
from Reading Station, or alternatively there are a number of local
buses that stop close by.

•  To accurately locate the College entrance at 64 Upper Redlands

Road on some GPS satellite navigation systems it may be necessary
to use the postcode RG1 5JP.

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