Our ref: PSH/LEW
January 2016
Dear Sir/Madam
Thank you for your interest in the post of Head of PE and Extra-Curricular Games at Hollygirt
School from September 2016
I have pleasure in enclosing Application Forms Part I and II, Job Description, Person
Specification and Diversity Monitoring Form.
Hollygirt School is a small non-selective school located in a quiet tree lined pedestrian area,
near the centre of Nottingham. Since September 2014 it has been fully co-educational but
boys in top juniors and in senior school are in a minority. It is a pleasant, happy and friendly
community, with high academic standards, and a lively range of activities.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and anyone applying
to work with us is expected to share this commitment. An Enhanced Disclosure is required for
the successful candidate.
There is a huge amount of scope for change and for revitalising Games on and off the
curriculum which we believe will provide an exciting challenge for a motivational, inspirational
and dynamic teacher. Is it you?
Our vacancy is to replace a current Head of Department who works three days a week. For a
young teacher, this could be a full time post although it is a Head of Department position, it may
suit a well-qualified, dynamic and highly competent NQT.
The department consists of one other part time member of staff, who is on the Senior
Management Team. There are other colleagues who help out with extra-curricular activities.
Currently the department teaches Games and PE throughout the school from the age of 3 to
16. From Early Years (age 3 to 5) to the end of Key Stage One (age 7) all PE lessons happen
on site using one of our two halls or the outdoor playground space when weather permits.
From Year 3 to 11 (age 7 to 16) pupils travel by bus to their Games lessons which take place at
the University of Nottingham using a variety of facilities there. All Key Stage One and Two (age
5 to 11) pupils swim once a week at the University of Nottingham’s pool. It would be an
advantage (though not essential) if the post holder could teach our swimming lessons.
We have additional PE lessons currently on the curriculum for Years 7 and 8 which take place
on site. The curriculum time allocated per subject is under review for 2016. There is likely to
be no reduction in the amount of time currently given to Games/PE.
There are a range of facilities in walking distance of school which are available for rent
including tennis courts and astro turf. We own no pitches or courts.
Where we are now
We teach a variety of sports on the curriculum on a rotational basis. This needs urgent review.
A number of non-specialist staff help out providing extra-curricular activities which include Duke
of Edinburgh Scheme (this is currently staffed and no input is required here); a Football Club
for boys and girls in Key Stages Two and Three; a Running Club and a Hockey Club.
Additionally we have used coaches for minor sports after school on a termly basis: archery,
kick boxing, gymnastics, Brazilian Soccer School, for example.
Currently we have few links with other schools and participate only rarely in competitive
activities or fixtures. Provisional discussions have been held with a number of local small
schools who share our facilities dilemma who would be happy to put in joint teams or do joint
training sessions also with larger schools who may help us with sports. We cannot as easily
facilitate given our pupil numbers and few boys. The Independent School’s Association to
which we belong has an impressive programme of annual events which we could be accessing.
There is much to be pursued here.
GCSE PE is not on offer at the moment. Neither does the school do sports’ leaders awards
however there are possibilities.
Transport to fixtures and competitions are usually arranged with parental support. The school
does not currently own a minibus.
If you think you have the skills we need and would like a chat and a look around before making
an application, please contact my PA Lucy Wilkins to make an appointment.
The salary will be paid in accordance with the Hollygirt Scale (which is slightly below the
national pay scale) at a starting point dependant on the candidate’s age and experience.
If you wish to apply for this position please return Application Forms Part I and II with the
Diversity Monitoring Form and a covering letter by 4.00pm on Thursday 11th February.
Interviews will be preceded by a short tour of the school and will involve a skills-related task.
I look forward to receiving your application should you decide to apply.
Yours sincerely
Mrs P S Hutley
Headmistress
Encs