Head of Netball

About the School - Downsend

Downsend is an innovative and forward thinking independent school, with a vision to inspire a generation to embrace the future and shape people who make change in our world.

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

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, it is a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries serving more than 100,000 students.

The purpose of Cognita is to create an environment where everyone can thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

We nurture each student's unique strengths and support them academically, socially, and emotionally across the world. Our schools offer rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices.

Students become part of a global network of over 90 schools.

About the Role

The Head of Netball will lead and coordinate the netball programme, planning the season, delivering a progressive curriculum, organising fixtures, supporting travel and match arrangements, and maintaining strong communication within the department.

They will ensure high standards in teaching and learning, support pupil progression and enrichment opportunities, and contribute to the wider co curricular life of the school. They will model professional standards, contribute to CPD and meetings, and uphold the department's ethos.

Responsibilities include assessing and monitoring pupil progress, maintaining accurate records, providing feedback and reports, and communicating effectively with parents. The role also requires compliance with SEND requirements and upholding high standards of health and safety.

This is a permanent, full time role with an anticipated start date of September 2026.

Who We Are Looking For

We seek a well qualified practitioner with a good honours degree and a recognised teaching qualification in PE and Games who demonstrates a passion for the subject. The ideal candidate is self motivated, a team player with a clear understanding of the school's ethos, excellent communication, organisational and administrative skills, and the ability to teach PE and Games across Years 2-13, specialising in netball.

The role demands energy, enthusiasm, willingness to go the extra mile, a cheerful professional manner, a sense of humour, and 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 the application before the closing date: Sunday 17th May 2026.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. 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 are 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 the closing date for the right applicant.